How to Get Rid of a Dank Basement Smell
- Remove mold and mildew growing in your basement. Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of water and add 1 cup of oxygen bleach.
- Remove odors trapped in basement dirt floors by saturating them with white vinegar. Fill a pump sprayer with undiluted white vinegar and saturate the dirt thoroughly.
- Open the doors and windows in the basement. This will help air out the basement and allow for proper air circulation and ventilation.
- Scatter handfuls of charcoal briquettes in the basement. You can find charcoal briquettes near the grills at department stores.
- Place several bowls filled with undiluted white vinegar in the basement and let them sit for 24 hours.
- Set several plates with onions cut in half in the basement and leave overnight. ...
- Scatter yard and concrete deodorizer granules in the basement. The deodorizer granules are reusable, recyclable and non-toxic.
How can I remove a musty smell from the basement?
How to Get Rid of Musty Smells:
- Locate sources of extra moisture and fix them. Find the source of your water leaks and moisture problems. ...
- Run a dehumidifier. This is key. I knew running the dehumidifier was making a difference, but I didn’t know just how much until our ancient one died.
- Air the space out whenever you can, but not on really humid days. When the weather allows, open the windows and let that fresh air in. ...
How to fix a musty smelling basement?
Musty Smell In Basement After Flood
- Clear the basement. The first step to removing the musty smell from your basement after a flood would be to clear the entire area.
- Remove the water. Now that you have taken out all the furniture, you can begin to remove the water without obstructions.
- Remove the mold. ...
- Ventilate the basement. ...
- Use a deodorizer. ...
- Set other odor absorbers. ...
How to get rid of a dank basement smell?
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Odors
- Make sure you fix the initial cause of the smell. For example, if you have a leaky pipe, make sure you get that fixed.
- Get a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers can be bought at home improvement stores and at some supermarkets.
- Install a ceiling fan. ...
- Set out odor absorbers. ...
- Connect the basement to your home ventilation system. ...
Why does my basement smell like mildew?
- Problem: One of the most common causes of mold growth in your basement is from high humidity or condensation. ...
- Problem: Another common cause of mold growth is from a leaking pipe or drain hose. ...
- Problem: Water leaking through the outside basement walls. ...
Why does my basement smell dank?
Underground living spaces can't hold moisture like the upper levels of your home. When the warmer air from above seeps into your basement, the moisture in the air condenses, and ends up on your dark basement walls and cold water pipes. Mold begins to form, and the unpleasant smell you can't seem to shake is born.
What makes a basement smell musty?
It might not seem like a cool basement is a bad thing, but when warmer air from upstairs meets the cooler air in the basement, it condenses on cold surfaces, including basement walls, furniture, and water pipes. This condensation contributes to odor-producing mold and mildew.
Will a dehumidifier get rid of musty smell in basement?
The best way to remove moisture from a damp basement is to keep a dehumidifier down there. A single dehumidifier in the basement will remove quite a bit of the dampness and lessen the smell.
How do you deodorize a basement?
Place bowls of baking soda around the basement. The baking soda will begin to absorb the odors and should make a significant difference over the course of a few days. You can also use bowls of white vinegar or clean cat litter—both will absorb odors as well.
What is the most powerful odor eliminator?
Best Overall: Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag Out of all the odor eliminators we tried, the Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag was our favorite. It's versatile, effective, and covers a decent amount of area (up to 90 square feet).
How long does it take a dehumidifier to remove musty smell?
🔎The consistency of using a dehumidifier. If not, the musty smell will just go back after a few days. On average, you should run a dehumidifier 12 hours a day to remove moisture. You should do this for a few days to weeks until all the moisture is gone.
What does black mold smell like?
It's often described as musty and earthy, and may even smell like rotting vegetables or plants. You might notice a musty smell, but not be able to see any mold growing. In this case, you should look for areas that might be exposed to water.
Can you have a musty smell without mold?
If your home or clothing smells musty, chances are you have mold or mildew hiding out. While other things — like a lack of ventilation or high levels of humidity — can make a musty odor more noticeable, they typically are not the primary cause of the smell.
Can you have a musty smell without mold?
If your home or clothing smells musty, chances are you have mold or mildew hiding out. While other things — like a lack of ventilation or high levels of humidity — can make a musty odor more noticeable, they typically are not the primary cause of the smell.
What does black mold smell like?
It's often described as musty and earthy, and may even smell like rotting vegetables or plants. You might notice a musty smell, but not be able to see any mold growing. In this case, you should look for areas that might be exposed to water.
What gets rid of musty smell?
Ventilate–and then ventilate some more. Fresh air is the best way to keep musty smells at bay! Open those blinds and pull back your curtains if you can't keep your windows open. We all have those days we want to hide away, but natural light does wonders for mustiness (and your Vitamin D levels).
How do I stop my house from smelling musty?
How to get of rid of musty smells in the houseLocate the source of the musty smell. ... Open up all windows and doors to let the fresh air in. ... Give musty-smelling clothes a fresh, fragranced wash. ... Turn on all ventilation fans or bring in electric fans, if necessary. ... Use lemons as a natural air freshener.More items...•
Step 1 - Clear Water Away from The Home
Clogged gutters and downspouts can contribute to the damp basement smell because they can cause standing water around the home. They need to be cle...
Step 2 - Clean The Basement
Clean out the basement and throw away all items that can help contribute to the odors you're trying to fight. This will include newspapers, cardboa...
Step 3 - Absorb Odors
Cleaning can sometimes only do so much, so to stop the damp basement smell from lingering, you want to be able to remove the odors from the air as...
Step 4 - Keep It Fresh
If you have eliminated the damp basement smell, you don’t want it to return. Your odor eliminators will continue to help, but there are other measu...
How to get rid of musty smell in house?
The third step for how to get rid of musty smell is to kill the mold. To do this, you can pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and heavily mist the affected areas, keeping your windows open and air circulating. Allow the spray to dry.
What happens when you get moisture in your basement?
When the warmer air from above seeps into your basement, the moisture in the air condenses, and ends up on your dark basement walls and cold water pipes. Mold begins to form, and the unpleasant smell you can’t seem to shake is born. It’s important to find out if moisture is entering your basement in other ways, as well.
How to get rid of cat smell in basement?
Put down a tray of clean cat litter in the basement to pull the smell from the air, replacing it every two weeks or as needed. If you have a cat in the home, be sure to keep it out of the basement and away from this tray or it won't be a very effective odor solution.
Why does my basement smell like water?
Clogged gutters and downspouts can contribute to the damp basement smell because they can cause standing water around the home. They need to be cleaned out at least once a year to prevent this. You may also consider putting extenders on your downspouts to conduct water farther away from the house if you have an issue with water leaking ...
Why do you need a dehumidifier in your basement?
A dehumidifier's express purpose is to remove moisture from the air. Having one running in the basement will keep the air drier and will help prevent any mold or mildew from growing. Cutting back on humidity and any mold and mildew growth will help keep the air cleaner.
What happens when you get moisture in your basement?
When there’s excess moisture in the air, mold and mildew can quickly grow paper items or fabrics , so be sure to check anything that may be accumulating spores and get it out of the house. This will also help you rid your basement of any unwanted junk.
Does charcoal absorb the smell of a basement?
Charcoal is famous for its absorbent qualities, and it will soak up the damp basement smell very quickly to leave the air much cleaner. It will also take in some of the extra moisture in the air to aid with the source of the smell. You’ll need to replace the briquettes monthly. Cat litter also absorbs smells very well.
What to do if your basement smells musty?
If you have carpets or upholstered furniture in your basement, consider renting a carpet and furniture steamer to give them a deep cleaning.
How to remove moisture from a basement?
The easiest way to remove moisture is to use a dehumidifier. These devices pull moisture out of the air and condense it into a removable tank that you can remove and empty. In some cases, you can route a drain hose to a floor or sink drain, removing the need to empty the tank. Dehumidifiers are excellent for basement settings.
How long does it take for a basement to smell fresh?
With these tips, your basement should be smelling fresh within a week. It’s important to watch for leaks, ensure p-traps remain full and continue controlling the humidity levels with a dehumidifier. If you maintain this regimen, your basement should remain odor-free for years to come.
Why is my bathroom sink leaking from the floor above?
It’s also possible that the cause of the issue is groundwater. If the grading around your home pitches back toward your basement, water will eventually work its way in. In this case, re-grading the property might be the best option.
Can you control musty smell?
With the moisture under control, you can finally tackle that musty aroma. The process is straightforward, and you may already have the supplies on hand.
Can you remove mold from drywall?
Be sure to address any wet materials as well. You can remove mold from damp drywall, concrete, and wood, but soaked drywall or insulation is easier to remove than repair.
Can you insulate a cold water pipe?
If your cold-water pipes sweat, you can insulate them with pipe wrap. Severe leaks in the foundation may require excavating outside and applying a waterproofing membrane. Otherwise, you can coat the interior of the foundation with a waterproofing treatment. Be sure to address any wet materials as well.
Why does my basement smell like mold?
The musty smell in your basement from unfettered mold and mildew growth also presents potential harm to your home’s structure. These fungi feed on organic materials, which include wood, many types of fabric, paper, and even some glues. Given enough time, mold can heavily stain your walls, floors, and ceilings; decay wood studs and drywall;
What to do if water seeps through basement wall?
Contact a contractor who specializes in basement repairs and waterproofing.
What causes mold and mildew in basement?
Two common and easily handled problems are condensation dripping off an uninsulated pipe or water leaking through a basement window.
What is the smell of mold and mildew?
A: That unpleasant, musty smell—some people describe it as akin to a wet dog—in is the calling card of mold and/or mildew. The spores of these ubiquitous fungi drift through the air until they find the damp, dark, and warm environment that allow them to multiply and thrive—conditions common to basements.
What is the best humidity level for a basement?
The preferred level of indoor humidity for most people is between 30 and 50 percent, while mold thrives with humidity of 60 percent or higher. Test your basement’s level with a hygrometer (available at Amazon ), which shows the relative humidity of a room at a glance. Then, consider purchasing a dehumidifier to make things more comfortable for you, ...
How to get rid of mold and mildew on clothes?
Wash and dry any garments on the hottest settings safe for the fabric to remove mildew and mold spores.
Why is my basement cooler than the upstairs?
Due to its underground position , your basement tends to stay cooler than the upper levels of your home during the warmer months. That can be a problem, though, when warmer air from upstairs circulates into the basement. As the warmer air rapidly cools in the basement’s lower temperature, water vapor condenses into a film of moisture that settles on the basement walls, as well as any furnishings or other items stored in the space. Moisture from the soil can also seep into a basement through the foundation, increasing indoor humidity further.
What does it mean when a basement smells damp?
A damp basement smell does not always mean mold growth, but extra moisture that creates the smell functions as an early indicator. Follow these methods to check vulnerable areas and learn how to remove musty smell from basement.
Why does my basement smell like sewage?
Musty smells in the basement air are caused by mold growth, water damage, or high humidity levels. Sewer gas distinctively smells like sewage and permeates through to affect all of the house smells. The solutions to fix these two problems are different.
What does a sanitizer do to a basement?
They help to disperse the odors collected in the air to give you a fresh smelling basement once again . This solution only lasts if any leaks have been repaired and mold has been removed.
Why does my basement floor get moldy?
Sometimes, these may “sweat” when the temperature on the outside is different from the pipe’s temperature . This excess moisture starts to drip onto the basement floors and causes mold or mildew growth underneath.
What happens if you don't seal your basement walls?
If the walls aren’t correctly sealed or waterproofed, water may seep through and allow mold spores to find breeding grounds in the walls. If you discover this happening in your home, you may want to hire someone for waterproofing your basement walls.
Why were basements used?
Basements were initially used as cold cellars as places to store perishable goods. The area dug out under the house stayed cool during summer and regulated during the freezing weather.
What is a crawl space in a basement?
Some basements have crawl spaces in them. These are small areas that may appear as a hole in the wall, leading into the dirt under a particular part of the home.
How to get rid of musty smell?
Now that you’ve adequately removed the source of the smell, it’s time to neutralize the odor. You can get rid of the musty smell in many ways, but baking soda seems to be the easiest and most effective.
What causes mold and mildew in the basement?
Groundwater can also be the cause of mold or mildew growing in the lower levels of your home. Water that collects on your lawn can eventually work its way into your basement, which can lead to several problems for the house’s foundation and the health of its inhabitants.
What Causes That Musty Odor in the First Place?
In most cases, the cause of that unpleasant smell is either mold or mildew.
Why is my basement always cooler?
Have you ever noticed that your basement is always slightly cooler than the rest of your dwelling? That’s because of its lower position . While this can be pleasant during the hot summer months, it can cause excess moisture and lead to mold growth. When the warm air from your home’s upper levels enters the basement, the water vapor can condense and cover the walls .
Can mold grow in basement?
Since basements are dark and moist, they’re the perfect breeding ground for mold. Sometimes, it can be difficult to spot mold spores early in their growth stages. However, they can quickly infiltrate the rest of your home if left untreated. What’s more, fungus can cause many health problems such as respiratory infections, itchy eyes, and irritated skin.
Why do basements stink?
Do you avoid your basement because of its unpleasant odors? Whether it’s finished or not, basements are typically cool, damp, and have little airflow going, all factors which contribute to its musty smell. Unfortunately, it takes more than general cleaning products and air fresheners to rid the space of mustiness for good. Take a look at some of these tried and true methods to keep your basement smelling light, airy, and fresh.
Why do basements smell so bad?
Since basements tend to be damp and have little airflow, they are common hot spots for mold and mildew growth. The first step in preventing further growth by sealing any leaky spots and inefficient drains.
Why do drains smell?
However, these drains can dry up from infrequent use, releasing stench into the air. If you notice smells arising near these drains, just pour a few cups of water into the drain to block the gases from escaping.
What is the best way to remove mold and mildew?
Products like bleach, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and even tea tree oil are some of the best at removing pesky fungus. Whether you decide to go the natural or chemical removal route, tackle your mold and mildew before it spreads and causes more issues.
What to do if you smell mold in basement?
If you are starting to smell a Mold /Mildew smell it is important to properly dry out your basement and remove any signs of mold to avoid even more damage as soon as possible.
Why Do Basements Smell After Flooding?
A variety of smells can be left harrowing your basement after flooding; whether it be from a burst pipe, an undetected leak, or even a heavy rainstorm. It’s important to know why your basement smells after the flood to determine the root cause.
Why does my carpet smell after a flood?
Mold and mildew are known to thrive in moist conditions and are a common cause of odors and smell post-flood. It can often be found growing in open spaces, in concealed areas inside walls or ceilings, or even in your carpet!
How to get rid of mold smell in a house?
Pour cat litter over the affected area. This works best if you have localized the smell and have allocated it to being a spill or growth of mold/mildew. Allow the cat litter to sit for a duration. Once it becomes more dense, and darker in color, it has likely absorbed the bulk of the substance in question.
What happens if you flood your basement?
A flooded basement can lead to an array of problems – a big one, in particular, is the smell that is left behind from the lingering moisture.
How long does it take for mold to spread in a basement?
Spreading Mold from a Flooded basement can take over the whole house in a matter of days. It can cause not only structural damage to your whole house in a form of dry rot but also be a very serious health concern.
How to get rid of fungal smells?
Try utilizing a dehumidifier. It is essential to remove the humidity and moisture from the targeted area in order to reduce the spread of unwanted fungal invaders and smells.
What is the best way to remove a septic system smell?
Use this basement odor eliminator with the dynamite duo of vinegar and baking soda whenever you notice an unpleasant smell or if water is draining too slowly in sinks, showers, or the toilet.
How to fix a smelly drain?
The simplest solution is to replace the cleanout piece. Remove the grate on the drain to check the condition of it first. If it’s cracked or missing altogether, then purchase a new one from the store. Otherwise, search for other causes of the bad smell.
Why does my floor drain smell like sewage?
Another common source of sewage smell in your floor drain may come from the cleanout plug. This tool directs sewage water to flow down into the sewage pipe rather than collecting it inside of the drain itself. If something damages the plug, or it cracks with typical wear and tear, then there’s nothing preventing the sewer gas from coming back up into your home.
Why does my washing machine smell like it's leaking?
If the drain on your washing machine is clogged by hair or not hooked up properly, then it causes these basement drain smells to leak back into the house. The most effective solution is to check the pipes and clear out any clogs with bleach.
Why does my basement ejector pit need a seal?
The ejector pit requires a firm seal to keep out the gas, so check it for cracks and potential damage. Another issue arises from cracks in the pipes. The wastewater leaks down into the ground from the sewer system and into the sump pump. This sump pump is what keeps your basement dry from the beginning.
Why does my basement smell like poop?
One significant possibility your basement smells like poop is due to a dried-up water trap. These are located on the basement floor inside drains and keep the room from flooding. These traps regularly hold a small amount of water to seal the pipe line and keep out that foul odor wreaking havoc on your basement.
What is wrong with my laundry room vent?
If the location of your laundry room is just above your basement or is in the basement itself, then one issue to look out for is improper venting. The vent system for most appliances traps regulates the flow of sewer gases through the vent stack and out into the air outside the home.
