The carbon pre-filters in air cleaners absorb mild odors. However, if you are bothered by stronger household odors such as formaldehyde and ammonia, exhaust fumes seeping in from the garage, pet odors, outgassing of household substances, or cleaning product fumes, you may benefit from an air cleaner with a filter specially designed for strong odors and fumes. Some good choices are the IQAir MultiGas, the Austin Air Healthmate Plus or Healthmate Plus Junior, or Blueair units with the optional Smokestop filter.