It's not likely cigarette smoke, probably creosote from the chimney. Have you had the chimney checked and cleaned lately? Do you use the fireplace? Do you burn wood or gas logs?

I suggest having a chimney sweep clean it thoroughly and then add a glass door to help prevent air coming down the chimney into the house.

https://www.hunker.com/12369717/how-do-i-remove-cigarette-smoke-odor-from-interior-brickwork

If that does not work, would hire restoration company for ozone treatment.

It’s definitely cigarette smoke- we cleaned the chimney last year and haven’t used it- they said it was in good conditions. There is a slight creosote smell but this is distinctly cigarette smoke :(

@mdln- I saw that- I was wondering if that actually works?

We actually thought of putting on a new damper to prevent the creosote smell coming through- so a serrated issue. It’s a 1954 house- I’m sure multiple people smoked in here :(

Yes, ozone treatment works - but it is harmful to individuals and the environment so it should only be used by those knowledgeable about the method, if other less toxic methods do not work.

Smoke odors penetrate porous materials. (Not surprised you notice the odor with high humidity, I have a similar situation on my property due to house fire.)

Until resolution, may want to use dehumidifier in the area to keep humidity low (30-40%).

If vinegar/baking soda, and ozone treatments don't work, may want to consider sealing brick and grout with appropriate type of paint.

Good luck removing odor.

I def want to avoid ozone treatment if at all possible.. for sure :(. I was wondering if anyone had any experience w vinegar and baking soda actually working?

Thank you

I try to keep as non- toxic of a home as possible in our home purchases/ furniture etc so I have been particularly annoyed w this and I have babies :(

House humidity is about 40% it doesn’t often go higher (we live in a desert so humidity this high is pretty rare- usually the house is like 10-20%

Why not just seal the brick and mortar? You don't have to paint it, you could use a clear finish. Maybe this? https://www.amazon.com/L390401-Interior-Exterior-Concrete-Low-Gloss/dp/B01MQCEFWK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&keywords=kilz+low+lustre&qid=1588013683&sr=8-4&linkCode=sl1&tag=yelbrihom-20&linkId=f4736eb1cef0cb3d0e01ce89ab5cc293&language=en_US

I know this is an old post, but I’m wondering if you found a solution. We have a similar problem with a stone fireplace.

Hi- I don't have a great solution- I painted all the wood areas/surrounds w Zinzer and I used 30% vinegar heavy duty stuff in a spray bottle and sprayed all the bricks everywhere. It seemed to help a bit but I'm not sure if it actually helped or just masked the cigs w potent vinegar.

Thanks for your reply! The vinegar smell dissipates right? I think I’ll try this, but nervous about how strong that will smell :)

Did you try any baking soda? I can’t fathom rinsing that much off, so haven’t tried it. Attempted TSP but not really helpful.

It dissipates after maybe 30m- def do open windows and maybe wear a mask and maybe eye protection if you are sensitive.