By Alex Thorne | Odor Control and Wellness Specialist
Why Odor Molecules Linger
Odor molecules are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—tiny carbon-based structures that evaporate easily but also cling to surfaces. Indoors, VOCs can accumulate because airflow is limited. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency identifies VOCs as a leading contributor to poor indoor air quality, which explains why quick sprays rarely solve the problem. Real odor removal happens at the molecular level.
Sulfur Compounds: The Rotten-Egg Challenge
Sulfur-containing compounds such as thiols (mercaptans) produce the classic “rotten egg” or skunk-like odor. Their sulfur-carbon bonds are chemically strong, allowing them to persist on fabrics and in air. Modest & Co.’s enzymatic formulas use catalysts that break those bonds, transforming sulfur compounds into odorless byproducts. The result: a pet-safe, non-toxic way to clear tough smells without harsh chemicals.
Nitrogen Compounds: Why Pet Odors Stick
Ammonia and amines—found in pet urine and organic waste—are polar molecules that form hydrogen bonds with fibers and water. That polarity helps them cling to porous surfaces like carpet and upholstery. Modest & Co.’s candles release heat-activated enzymes that break those bonds safely, neutralizing odor sources without damaging materials or exposing pets to toxins.
Terpenes: Plant-Based Molecules That Linger
Terpenes give plants and smoke their distinct scents—from citrus to pine to cannabis. Because they’re non-polar hydrocarbons, they prefer oil and wax surfaces, making them hard to wash away. Modest & Co.’s odor-killing sprays contain enzymes that oxidize or split those chains into simpler, non-aromatic compounds, removing odor without heavy fragrance cover-up.
How Enzymes Crack the Code
Enzymes act like molecular keys, binding to specific odor structures and lowering the energy required to break their chemical bonds. Sulfur molecules oxidize into neutral sulfates, nitrogen odors hydrolyze into ammonium salts, and terpenes cleave into shorter chains. This targeted reaction is why enzymatic products achieve true neutralization instead of masking. It’s clean chemistry in action—safe for pets and effective for homes.
Data That Explains Their Stubbornness
Researchers have identified dozens of odor-causing compounds in common environments. Agricultural studies catalog over 75 odorants in organic waste—most linked to sulfur and nitrogen chemistry (Washington State University). In odor removal systems, enzyme-assisted biofiltration achieves 60–90 % VOC reduction (ResearchGate study 2025). Modest & Co. adapts these industrial-grade principles for everyday living—safe, effective, and non-toxic.
From Industrial Science to Home Freshness
Large facilities use enzymatic and bio-oxidation systems to control odors from food processing and waste treatment. Modest & Co. takes that same chemistry and scales it to home formulas that work without special equipment. Whether it’s a targeted spray on fabrics or a coconut–apricot wax candle for ambient freshness, each product follows the same principle: neutralize at the source, don’t mask.
Pet-Safe Chemistry Matters
“If we are putting some kind of chemical into the air merely to mask scents, then we have to be concerned about the negative implications for our pets.” — Dr. Patrick Mahaney, DVM
That expert perspective sums up why Modest & Co. favors enzyme-driven odor removal over heavy synthetic fragrances. Every formula is non-toxic and biodegradable for families who care about cleaner air and safer homes.
FAQs
Why do sulfur smells linger so long?
Sulfur-carbon bonds are chemically stable. Enzymatic sprays accelerate oxidation to break them apart safely.
How do terpenes stick to surfaces?
They’re non-polar and bond with oils and wax films. Modest & Co. formulas degrade these chains to remove their odor signature.
Are Modest & Co. products pet-safe?
Yes—all sprays and candles are non-toxic and tested for use in households with pets when used as directed.
Will enzymatic products remove ammonia smells for good?
They neutralize ammonia and amines at the molecular level for long-term freshness—no masking required.
The Bottom Line
Odor molecules are tough because their chemical bonds are tough. Breaking them safely requires targeted enzymatic action. Modest & Co.’s pet-safe, non-toxic odor-killing sprays and coconut–apricot wax candles do exactly that—using science to create cleaner, healthier air that lasts. Shop the collection and breathe easier today.