By Emily Rhodes, Product R&D Lead at Modest & Co.
TL;DR
Odor neutralization works by chemically bonding to odor-causing molecules like terpenes and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and rendering them undetectable to your nose. At Modest & Co., our products are engineered to eliminate—not mask—cannabis odors using terpene-reactive compounds and tested scent strategies.
What Causes Cannabis Odor?
The unmistakable smell of cannabis is primarily caused by terpenes, the aromatic compounds also found in essential oils. Common offenders include:
- Limonene – citrusy and sharp
- Myrcene – musky and earthy
- Caryophyllene – peppery and pungent
These molecules are both volatile and lipophilic—they cling to fabrics, float in the air, and bind to surfaces like curtains, rugs, and paint.
How Our Odor Neutralization Technology Works
Our sprays and candles use a dual-action approach:
- Terpene-Targeting Neutralizers – Bind with airborne terpenes to neutralize scent before it lingers
- Scent Layering – Carefully formulated fragrances overpower residual smells and enhance air quality
SPME-GC Testing
We conducted third-party lab tests using SPME-GC (Solid Phase Microextraction + Gas Chromatography) and saw up to 82% reduction in cannabis terpenes like myrcene and limonene within 15 minutes. Testing was conducted by Neutralia Labs, an ISO 17025-accredited VOC analysis facility.
Tests were done in real-world environments: cars, bathrooms, and 1-bedroom apartments up to 400 sq ft with moderate ventilation and post-combustion terpene levels.
Where It Works Best
- Small apartments – One spray into each corner, plus 1 at curtain or rug zones
- Cars – 1 spray under each seat, 1 into air vents with AC on recirculate
- Bathrooms – 2 sprays before, 1 after into the fan direction
- Parenting homes – Spray away from food prep/kid play zones, but safe to use after bedtime or during ventilation cycles
DIY Odor Hacks That Actually Work
- Vinegar mist: 1:1 vinegar and water sprayed onto drapes or rugs
- Baking soda sachets: Stuff old socks or cheesecloth with baking soda and tuck behind furniture
- Charcoal jars: Leave small bowls of activated charcoal near windows or vents
- Simmer pot: Orange peel, cloves, and cinnamon in water for 15 minutes
Why We Don’t Just Mask the Smell
Many air fresheners simply add more scent to the room. That’s like spraying cologne after the gym—ineffective and obvious. Modest & Co. products are engineered to eliminate the odor source at the molecular level.
Real-World Use Cases
“I used to panic before people came over. Now, two sprays and a 10-minute head start is all it takes. My guests think I’ve been baking cookies.” — Janelle M., Los Angeles
“I vape in the car before picking up my sister. Two sprays into the vents and one under the seat—by the time she’s in the car, it smells like citrus and linen.” — Marcus T., Phoenix
“We live in a small apartment and burn one of your candles in the hallway before dinner. It smells fresh and clean—no judgment from guests.” — Alina R., New York
FAQs
- Are Modest & Co. sprays safe for pets and kids? Yes. Our products are VOC-safe, non-toxic, Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, and free of phthalates and parabens.
- How long do the effects last? Typically 1.5 to 2 hours depending on airflow, room size, and amount used.
- Does it work on fabrics or just in the air? Both. Spray lightly onto curtains, rugs, or upholstery for lingering freshness.
- How many sprays should I use? Standard protocol: 2 sprays before, 2 after, 1 near vents or fans
Try Our Lab-Tested Solutions