Removing Nicotine From Walls

As the smell in a heavy smoker’s home can linger for a very long time, it can be difficult to completely remove nicotine from walls. For a chemical-free approach, the best cleaner for nicotine on walls is a solution of half vinegar and half water. When cleaning nicotine stains, the vinegar can also help to neutralize the lingering odor. Spray the vinegar solution and let it sit for several seconds before wiping it clean with a damp cloth. It can take several applications to complete. The best cleaner for nicotine on walls from a commercial standpoint is a product containing trisodium phosphate, or TSP. TSP is a general-purpose cleaner found in most home improvement stores.

Before cleaning the wall, put a tarp down on the floor to protect it from drips. It’s also a good idea to don cleaning gloves, as TSP can irritate the skin.

To remove nicotine from walls, follow the directions on the label for the proper amount of water to cleaner ratio. Dip a sponge or scrub brush in the cleaning solution and wipe or scrub until the stain disappears. It may take several passes for stains that are building up over time. Rinse the sponge in clean water and wipe the area clean of the cleanser.

It may not be possible to remove nicotine from walls that are too far gone, and repainting may be necessary. Because tar and nicotine will leach through paint, it’s best to first paint the walls with KILZ primer to neutralize the odor and cover the stain.