Removing Smoke Smells from Video Games

Smoke odors can be particularly stubborn when they penetrate porous materials like cardboard game boxes and plastic cases. Understanding how smells work and the materials involved is key to effective odor removal.

Odors are caused by microscopic particles that float in the air and adhere to surfaces. These particles can become trapped in the porous, cellular structure of materials like cardboard and plastic. Both materials have cellular structures that can trap odor particles deep within their fibers and cavities - this is why simply wiping the surface often isn't enough.

Before starting any cleaning process, determine if you're dealing with simple smoke odor or heavier tar and nicotine contamination:

1. Add a drop of water to your thumb
2. Press your thumb against the surface and move it around in a small circle with light pressure
3. Lift your thumb and wipe off the surface
4. If your thumb feels sticky or noticeably tacky, the items have tar and nicotine content

This test determines whether you need standard odor removal or more aggressive cleaning methods.

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
• Warm, low-airflow environment
• Soft brush or towel for removal

1. Dust entire surface generously with baking soda (do not scrub)
2. Place in warm environment with minimal airflow (sunroom without direct sunlight, warm closet, or garage)
3. Leave for 8-10 hours initially
4. Gently brush or blow off baking soda and assess smell
5. Apply fresh baking soda and repeat if necessary - this may take several cycles

After baking soda treatment, gently wipe surfaces with soapy water to remove additional surface particles. Be careful not to damage printed artwork.

1. Remove all paper materials from cases
2. Place paper items in ziplock bags
3. Cover completely with baking soda and push out all air
4. Seal bags and place in warm room with minimal airflow for 8 hours
5. Remove and assess smell, repeat with fresh baking soda if necessary

• Warm soapy water
• White vinegar (optional but recommended)
• Large tub or sink
• Cold water for rinsing

1. Fill tub with warm soapy water (comfortably warm, not hot) with a layer of bubbles on top
2. Add a small amount of white vinegar and swirl
3. Submerge cases completely and let soak for 2-3 hours
4. Drain water and let cases sit for another hour
5. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and air dry completely

Note: Water spotting may occur depending on water hardness - this can be wiped off once dry.

If the sticky thumb test was positive, increase water temperature slightly and use more aggressive scrubbing to break down glycol in tar and nicotine. May require multiple cleaning cycles.

1. Scrub the sides gently with isopropyl alcohol
2. This removes the majority of odors from cartridge surfaces
3. Note: Switch cartridges often resist odors due to the bitter taste additive applied during manufacturing

Warmth: Warm environments cause porous materials to expand and contract slightly, helping release trapped odor particles from deep within the material structure.

Baking Soda: Excels at absorbing both moisture and odor particles. It draws out particulate matter and neutralizes odors effectively. Small bits of baking soda will get into the corners and crevices of cardboard, pulling out more of the smell as the baking soda dries over time. It will just basically turn into nothing because it's sodium bicarbonate and naturally breaks down.

Time: Natural aging causes cardboard and paper to flex and release trapped particles over time. The baking soda method significantly accelerates this process.

For those with time and space:

1. Completely disassemble all items and spread on a large table with all surfaces exposed
2. Position a fan to blow across all items for 2-3 weeks with consistent airflow
3. Ensure changes in humidity, temperature, and pressure occur naturally

This method works but requires significant space and time commitment.

• Never scrub baking soda into printed surfaces - this can damage artwork
• Avoid direct sunlight which can fade colors
• Always test liquid cleaning methods on inconspicuous areas first
• “Warm” means comfortably warm, not hot temperatures
• Multiple treatment cycles are normal and expected
• Fresh air circulation helps prevent re-contamination

Most smoke odors can be completely eliminated with patience. Cigarette smoke with heavy tar/nicotine content requires more aggressive treatment and multiple cycles are typically necessary. Even heavily contaminated items can be restored to odor-free condition.

Remember: Every single item can be fixed with the right approach and sufficient patience. The key is identifying the level of contamination and choosing the appropriate method intensity.