Hi Draclvr
Onions used in the way I describe DO eliminate odours and DO NOT make the room stinky.
I can personally attest to this as I have used onions myslf in this way many times.
And they are especially effective in dealing with the paint fumes that once were prevalent when decorating inside the home.
However, I don't think "modern" paint for interior use is as problematic. Certainly not here in the UK, anyway .... which is worthy progress !!
I have
no experience, however, of onions absorbing bacteria and so must bow to Dr. Ruth McDonald's superior knowledge and apologise for any misunderstanding I might have caused.
Cheers.
Mad