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Ozone smoke removal uses an ozone generator to eliminate stubborn odors from sources like house fires, wildfires, or cigarette smoke. Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive, unstable gas that neutralizes odors by oxidizing the organic compounds it comes into contact with. During this oxidation process, ozone "donates" its extra oxygen molecule to the smoke particles, effectively eliminating their smell, with oxygen being the primary byproduct. While ozone can be effective for removing smoke smells from building materials and belongings like wood furniture, this treatment is best left to a professional, as improper use of an ozone generator can be dangerous to your health.

Luckily, you can typically eliminate your microwave’s burnt smell within a few hours for most situations. Be sure to let it air out for two to three hours after cleaning to let the odor evacuate your home—if you close your home up too early, the odor will be trapped. For stronger, more stubborn burnt smells, it might take a full day or more to really notice a difference. 

Hard materials like glass, metal, and hardwood floors, washable fabrics, and undamaged electrical appliances can often be salvaged after a fire, although it depends on the extent of the damage. For washable fabrics, make sure to use a phosphate mix during the washing process to extract the smoke smell. There are a few things you should throw away after a fire, like canned foods and cosmetics, even if they don’t look like they’re damaged.

The timeline for fire damage restoration varies significantly, from a day or two to over a year, depending on the extent of the damage. For minor incidents like a small cooking fire, cleaning up soot and removing smoke odors may only take a day or two. Repairing minor damage might take about one to two weeks. However, a major fire requiring structural repairs, full property renovation, and replacement of materials can take anywhere from six to 12 months to over a year. This longer timeline often includes waiting for insurance approvals and contractor scheduling. It's best to consult with your insurance provider and restoration team to get an accurate timeline for your specific situation.