Things to Put on a Wood Stove to Make It Smell Nice

Creosote

• Over time, smoke and soot can build up on the interior of a wood stove, leaving the walls, pipes and doors covered with a thick, black layer of creosote. To remove this flammable and corrosive chemical, light a chimney log; a piece of artificial wood that has been chemically formulated to dissolve creosote as it burns. Once the log has turned to ash, scoop out the residue, then wash the inside of the stove with a solution made from 1 tbsp. household ammonia, 2 tbsp. distilled white vinegar, and 1 qt. water. Sponge the solution over any soiled areas, wait 30 seconds, and then wipe with a soft cloth. Repeat, if necessary, until the stove is clean. According to Linda Cobb, The Queen of Clean, in addition to removing grime and dirt, this particular combination of ingredients neutralizes smoke odors.
  
  

Absorb Odors

• Eliminate lingering smells from the wood stove by loading it with materials that are naturally absorbent. Fill a shallow bowl with baking soda, coffee grounds, coffee beans, or cat box litter; place the bowl in the stove and shut the door. Wait 24 to 48 hours, and then remove the dish; the unpleasant aroma should be gone. To remove particularly stubborn odors, sprinkle 2 tsp. of ground spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg or cloves, over a sheet of aluminum foil and place it on the stove top; the room will be filled with a fragrant, spicy scent.
  
  

Freshen the Fire

• There is nothing cozier than a warm fire on a wintry night, unless the flames are emitting an unbearable stench. Smells caused by odoriferous wood or strongly-scented kindling can easily be eliminated by tossing a handful of lemon, lime or orange peels into the flames. As the peels burn, they will release a fresh, citrus fragrance that easily overpowers most wood stove smells.
  
  

Debris

• A wood stove that has been cleaned and deodorized may still produce an unpleasant aroma. If the odor persists, check the stove elements and pipes to ensure they are clear of debris. Small animals often hide inside the pipes, chimneys and vents of wood stoves. Not only are these locations warm; they are sheltered and secluded, offering the creatures a measure of protection from predators. When they move on, they leave their nesting materials behind, and as the materials decay, they produce an off-putting odor.