Tobacco and cigarette smoke contain nicotine, a toxic alkaloid that can leave a yellowish discolouration on anything that comes into contact with it. Nicotine stains are not only ugly, but also smell unpleasant. Due to its sticky nature, it can be difficult to get nicotine off walls or upholstery. The method for removing nicotine stains depends on the surface in question.

 

Remove nicotine from the wall

 

For cleaning walls, it is best to use trisodium orthophosphate (E339), which is usually used to remove algae in pond care. Mix about 50ml of trisodium orthophosphate with two litres of water in a bucket. Soak up the liquid with a sponge and scrub the walls until the nicotine stains are gone.

 

Remove nicotine from furniture

 

Mix a quarter of a litre of clear vinegar with a litre of water. Apply the liquid liberally to the furniture. The solution helps to dissolve the nicotine from the furniture. Then rub the furniture. Finally, vacuum upholstered furniture with a hoover. Polish wooden furniture with furniture polish.