When starting odor control, which area should be addressed first?

The most effective strategy for odor control begins with addressing the source area. This is because odors typically emanate from a specific source, whether it be spills, mold, or any contaminant that has penetrated the materials in the environment. By targeting the source of the odor, you can eliminate the root cause rather than merely masking the smell.

If you were to focus on the affected area, the adjacent area, or the ventilation area without first addressing the source, you might find that any temporary relief from odors does not last. For example, treating the affected area could provide a momentary improvement, but without eliminating the source, the odor is likely to reemerge. The same principle applies to the adjacent and ventilation areas; if you do not neutralize the source, odors can continue to spread or re-enter the space. Thus, tackling the source area first assures a more thorough and lasting solution to odor control.