How to Remove Odors From an Area Rug Sprinkle a generous number of baking soda above the area rug to get rid of any lingering odors. "Enable the baking soda sit for a minimum of 15 to thirty minutes to soak up odors," states Sokolowski. "Vacuum the rug extensively Later on to remove the baking soda."By no means use hot water or maybe a steam cleane