Plastic drop cloths are handy, but I try to avoid single-use stuff when I can. Old towels and rags do most of the heavy lifting for me. For the smell, I’ve had decent luck simmering a pot of water with lemon peels and a splash of vinegar—doesn’t mask everything, but it’s less harsh than air fresheners. The smell still lingers sometimes, though... not sure there’s a perfect fix.
I hear you about the plastic. I’ve tried using old towels too, but man, once they get soaked with that sewer water, it’s tough to ever get them fully clean again—mine usually end up in the trash anyway. For the smell, I’ve had coworkers swear by coffee grounds in a bowl, but honestly, nothing really kills it completely. After a rough backup at my place last year, I just left windows open for a whole day and hoped for the best... still caught a whiff now and then for weeks.
Yeah, those towels are basically done for after one of those backups—no shame in tossing them. I’ve seen folks try vinegar or baking soda for the smell, but honestly, once that sewer funk gets into porous stuff, it’s stubborn. Airing out is about as good as it gets sometimes. You’re not alone dealing with lingering odors; even pros have to fight that battle now and then. Just part of the joy, right?
I tried to save a couple towels once—big mistake. The smell just laughed at my efforts. Ended up tossing them and lighting every candle I owned. Has anyone actually had luck with those enzyme sprays, or is that just wishful thinking?
The smell just laughed at my efforts.
Yeah, I’ve been there. Once that sewer stink sets in, it’s brutal. I’ve tried enzyme sprays—honestly, they help a bit with the odor, but don’t expect miracles. If the towels are soaked, nothing really saves them. I keep baking soda and vinegar on hand for surfaces, but for fabrics? Usually not worth the hassle.