How to get rid of Odors From an Area Rug Sprinkle a generous volume of baking soda over the area rug to eliminate any lingering odors. "Enable the baking soda sit for a minimum of 15 to half-hour to absorb odors," says Sokolowski. "Vacuum the rug thoroughly Later on to eliminate the baking soda."When water damage strikes, you might want to act swif