Common Sources of Musty Smells in Homes and Basements
- Refrigerators and Freezers. Mold and mildew love to grow in those sweaty nooks and crannies of refrigerator and freezer door gaskets.
- Plants. The right plants improve indoor air quality, but plants can also be a source of musty odors. ...
- Garbage Cans. Not surprisingly, garbage can make your home smell musty. ...
- Food and Beverages. ...
- Hidden Water Damage. ...
- Pet Odors. ...
Full Answer
How to get rid of mildew smell in house?
Step-by-step removal of the musty odor
- Determine what is causing the mildew and musty odor. ...
- Make a bleach solution. Put on latex gloves to protect your hands and skin, a mask to keep the bleach mixture and mold out of your lungs, and ...
- Get rid of the mildew and musty odor. Dip a toothbrush into the combination of bleach and water. ...
- Do it again. ...
- Thoroughly dry the area. ...
Why does my house smell like mildew?
Try these tips for preventing musty smells:
- Repair active leaks and other ways water can enter the home – roof leaks, cracked foundation, leaky plumbing, etc.
- Have your HVAC system serviced annually and have your ductwork checked to see if it needs to be cleaned out.
- Keep a lid on your trashcans and take trash outside at least once a week to prevent odor accumulation.
How do you get mildew out of Your House?
How to beat mildew smell:
- Wash It via Today If you have a smaller item that smells like mildew, the easiest place to start is to wash the item. ...
- Air It Out via Housewife How-Tos Once you’ve completed the wash cycle of this process, you’ll want to give this item lots of room to dry. ...
- Wash Bigger Items
How to get mildew smell out of clothes quickly?
- Start by separating the clothes that can be washed and those that need to be dry-cleaned.
- Add one cup of white vinegar to the washing machine and run a full cycle.
- If the smell is still there, add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
- Hang clothes outside on a sunny day to air them out and remove any remaining mildew smell. ...
How to prevent mildew in house?
Having a vent to deal with water vapor in the air in your home can help prevent mildew growth. 6. Sudden warmth. During the Summer and Spring thawing specifically, when there are sudden bouts of warm weather, it can lead to mildew growth, especially if other environmental factors are present.
What causes mildew?
Moisture is one of the most important factors. When an area is too moist, there is too much water in the air, and it allows mildew to grow. Mildew needs other things to live like a food source, and it prefers darkness, and of course having stale air exacerbates this - but the most important factor contributing to mildew is moisture.
What is mildew?
Mildew is a specific type of mold. It grows in a flat formation on the surface. Because it is on the surface, it is much easier to remove compared to mold which grows inside different material. Mildew is typically found on damp surfaces like fabrics, paper, or other organic materials inside of your home.
What is the difference between mildew and mold?
Mildew and mold are both types of fungi that are typically found in moist environments inside the home. They can both spread easily and they live on many types of surfaces.
Can breathing in mildew make you sick?
In some cases, you can get sick breathing in mildew, particularly if you have a pre-existing respiratory condition or asthma. Additionally, some people have more severe allergies to mildew.
Why is there mold on my shower tile?
If your bathroom has mildew growth on the shower tiles, it could be nothing more than mildew growth. But it could also be a sign of an internal leak and more serious mold growth behind the walls or in the floors. If you have children in the home or you suffer from a pre-existing respiratory condition, cleaning these contaminants yourself could cause harmful ramifications.
What is the best way to get rid of mildew in a house?
5. Crawl spaces. Your crawl spaces, including crawl spaces under the house with a bare earth floor, typically have a relatively higher level of humidity compared to the rest of your home. This is an environment perfect for hidden mildew gross.
What does mildew smell like?
Mildew usually has a damp, musty smell to it that can resemble odors such as rotting wood or wet carpets.
Where does mildew smell come from?
The smell of mildew can come from moisture in the shower, darkness in the bathroom or high levels of humidity.
How to get rid of mildew smell in bathroom?
Try using a cleaning solution with one part bleach and one part water and wipe down any parts of the bathroom that give off a mildew smell.
Why does my dryer smell like mildew?
Also, any bacteria, soap, scum or dirt that gets stuck in the washer or dryer could give off an odor of mildew over time if not cleaned properly .
What to do if you smell mildew in your bathroom?
If you smell mildew in the bathroom first you want to check for any leaks near water sources. The search for any water damage on the floor, walls or ceilings.
What is the smell of mildew?
With mildew the scent can be compared to that of damp socks – a mild, musty scene.
How to make sure mildew doesn't return?
Another thing to do to make sure the mildew doesn’t return is to maximize the air circulation by placing a fan in the area you cleaned.
Why does my house smell like mold?
The musty smell that is harbored within your home’s walls can be the cause of several factors residing in the environment and/or conditions that are present in the indoor space. Although most people’s initial thought is that musty smells only come from mold development in the environment, this is simply not the case. Therefore, we are going to go in-depth into the areas in your home that may be prone to this potent odor and the causes behind this musty odor smell in the space.
Why is my basement smelly?
This is usually due to the conditions present in this environment – dark, humid, moist, and generally uninviting due to the raging odors permeating from the air of this space. All of these conditions allow for the perfect environment for mold to blossom and aggressively spread within and thus the musty odor will be detectable in full force when you are exposed to the air of this indoor space.
Why do bathrooms smell?
Musty odors in a bathroom is a common issue that a lot of homeowners will experience due to the high moisture levels that are present in this small, enclosed space. This distinct smell can come from towels, floor mats, and even curtains that may be found in the bathroom that have accumulated moisture within the fabric. Additionally, a bathroom can be an ideal place for mold to grow and thrive which can create that unpleasant aroma of mustiness in the air of the environment.
Why does my air conditioner smell musty?
This can be a big problem because the air conditioner will rapidly spread the air throughout the entire environment, which can lead to a musty odor infiltration inside the whole home.
Why does my AC smell muggy?
What could this musty smell be caused by in your ac system? Well, most likely it is the development of mold and/or mildew within this item in your home. This can be a big problem because the air conditioner will rapidly spread the air throughout the entire environment, which can lead to a musty odor infiltration inside the whole home.
Why do windows smell musty?
Windows: The windows inside of a home may also be an area where musty odors can form, and this is due to the condensation buildups that can over time develop into mold/mildew which will produce the musty odor in the air.
What causes a musty smell in the air?
The musty smell inside of your home can come from a range of conditions/items/sources in this environment such as humidity, temperature, and air flow/ventilation which all contribute to the musty odor and the containment of this smell inside of the air. In addition, certain chemicals that are present within the home can also emulate the same aroma of mustiness in the air, such as certain VOCs that are released off of building materials and furniture in the home.
Why does my house smell musty?
If you look at what they all have in common, they all signify a presence of either mildew or mold resulting from moisture. So, make sure to find the source of mold or mildew before you put in the effort to eliminate the musty smell, as doing so will only cover it.
What does it mean when your house smells old?
You walk into a house, and you instantly get a whiff of something old and musty. The “old house smell” is something every homeowner dreads, and for good reason. A musty old smell can be extremely displeasing and tricky to get rid of. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to eliminate musty odors.
How to keep a mattress from smelling musty?
To prevent this, wash these places regularly using an appropriate cleaning solution. You can also opt for a mattress topper/protector to keep your mattress smelling fresh all year round.
How to get rid of musty smell in house?
Open the Windows. Letting some fresh air into the house is not only good at getting rid of the musty stench, but it’s also good for your health. Cracking open a few windows improves your home’s ventilation and prevents the growth of mold.
What is the best way to remove mold from carpet?
What’s best is to use a steam cleaner, shampoo, or baking soda to remove the musty smell and mold from your carpet.
Where is mold and mildew found?
Some common areas mold and mildew are present are: Kitchen. Since you use a fair amount of water in the kitchen , there are plenty of spots for mold to grow. Be sure to check around your fridge, sink, cabinets, and around your stove. Depending on what food you threw away, mold may start to form in your trash can as well.
Where do mold spores grow?
Bathrooms. Since warmth and moisture are abundant, mold spores love bathrooms. People find mold growing in their shower, between tiles, under the sink… you name it. Make sure you check your bathrooms regularly to spot any mold growing.
Why does my basement smell like mold?
Basements tend to smell like mold because they are typically more damp which allows mold and mildew to grow and thrive. Being underground, a basement is not only susceptible to water intrusion at the foundation, but also warmer air entering the building envelope which leads to condensation.
Why does mold smell?
The smell of mold has an extremely distinct odor.
How to get rid of mold smell in home?
Getting rid of the mold smell in a home home can be accomplished by a process known as mold remediation. Mold remediation will get rid of the odor by not only removing the mold damaged materials, but also sanitizing the home through a process called micro-cleaning.
What is the difference between mold and mildew?
However…. The main difference is mildew generally grows on surfaces whereas mold will actually penetrate the surfaces. When the average person is referring to an moldy odor or mildew odor, they generally are referring to the same thing.
What is black mold?
Black mold refers to a type of mold called Stachybotrys which is just one specie. Because takes a large or hidden chronic leak for black mold to grow for a long time, the odor of black mold is typically more potent than other mold spore types.
How long does mold stay in the washer?
Instead of taking it out and putting it in the dryer, keep the clothes in the washer with the lid closed. Now leave it there for three to five days.
Why does my HVAC system smell?
If there have been no doors or windows open and the HVAC system has not been running for a substantial period of time, this can lead to an odor.
S To Getting Rid Of Mold
The spores of mold require a substrate, warmth, darkness, oxygen, and moisture to grow. Moisture is the real catalyst however and can stem from a leaking tap or simply a high level of humidity.
How To Get Rid Of Musty Smell In Basement
Your basement is another breeding ground for musty smells, especially if it is unfinished. Why? Because basements are typically damp. However, before you can remove the smell permanently, you need to find the source or sources and clean it. Vinegar or peroxide are great options for removing mold and mildew. You’ll also want to:
How To Get Rid Of Musty House Smells
Eliminating an unpleasant musty odor in your home can be difficult, even with deep cleaning. To get to the root of the problem, you often need to make some home upgrades.
Use Lemons As A Natural Air Freshener
For an easy and natural air freshener, boil lemon peels in a pan of water. Once the lemony fragrance is released, remove the pan from the kitchen and set it down in the area of your home which you want to air out, being careful to place the pan on a suitable surface.
Easy Steps On How To Get Rid Of Mildew Smell In Old House
If you want to learn how to get rid of mildew smell in old house, you have to be ready to investigate where the musty smell is coming from, deep clean the space, and let the fresh air in. Arm yourself with a strong stomach, a face mask, and a whole lot of patience and determination because things are going to get dirty.
Mold Is Only The Symptom
The only effective way to control biological air contaminants like molds, fungi, bacteria, and dust mites is by tackling the cause. Eliminate the sources of moisture and reduce humidity in your home! Repair any water leaks in the roof, walls or basement.
Get Some Natural Air Freshener
A great, refreshing hack you can use to get rid of the mildew smell is to make a pot of boiling water with lemon peels. Once you start smelling the lovely citrus scent, turn the fire off and carefully settle the pot to the area where the musty smell is the strongest.
Why does my HVAC smell?
Air filters are a frequent culprit of strange HVAC smells. (Photo by Summer Galyan)
What is the smell of rotten egg drywall?
If the problem persists, you may be suffering from a relatively new issue. Many homeowners in the south and southeastern parts of the United States have reported similar symptoms as yours. Some of these homeowners, whose homes were built after 2000 using imported Chinese drywall, have reported that the drywall emits fumes, which produce a sulfur “rotten egg” odor. The drywall also is believed to corrode coils and wiring throughout the homes. Call your builder to determine if the drywall used in your home was imported, or hire a qualified home inspector or a certified industrial hygienist to check it out.
What is the breeding ground for mold in an air conditioner?
Your air conditioning unit is a breeding ground for mold, which commonly grows in air returns, distribution plenums and evaporator coils. Check those spots for visible signs of mold, or have a professional do it for you.
What is the best humidity level for a house?
Start first with your humidity level. The acceptable level in your home should be between 35 and 55 percent. If possible, bring yours to a consistent mid-40s level and see if that eliminates the smell. A whole-house dehumidifier could solve the problem if you have serious humidity issues.
How to get rid of mildew smell in cabinet?
If you can sense a mildew smell in a certain area, such as a cabinet, remove any items in the area and set out a dish of vinegar to help dissipate the smell
Why does mold smell when it rains?
When it rains, the moisture in the air can carry fungi and bacteria that causes the growth of mold and subsequent mildew smells.
How to get rid of a strong smell?
The easiest temporary way to get rid of the smell is to spray an air freshener in the areas where the smell is strongest. Unfortunately this solution will only last for a short while and should only be used if you just need to cover up the smell for a short amount of time.
Why does my basement smell like sewer?
Much like when you can detect a sewer smell in other parts of the house, a sewer smell in your basement tends to be due to problems with the septic tank.
Why does my septic tank smell?
If this happens then the gases from the septic tank are likely to seep into the open air and make the area smell.
Why does my sewer smell?
Most likely, it is a smell coming from sewer gas caused by clogged drains or other plumbing issues. In general, there are two major reasons why this might happen:
What to do if there is no mold in my house?
If there’s no mold in those areas, look around on your walls or carpets to see if there is any noticeable water damage. Anywhere there’s water damage there’s likely to be mold behind it.
How to get rid of a strong smell in your house?
Clear your sense of smell by stepping outside for a few minutes. When you re-enter your house, follow the offending scent until you reach the area where the smell is the strongest. Keep in mind that the smell may be coming from other floors, the attic, crawlspaces, or even through vents outside. Enlist the help of family members ...
What to do if your house smells bad?
For bad odors that lead to walls or floors, hire a plumber or building inspector to drill a small hole in the drywall or floor and snake in a small camera to locate mold, pipe leaks or dead animals.
How to get rid of animal odor in house?
Cut a hole into the wall or floor to remove any dead animals or animal nests, or to repair leaky pipes or water damage. Always try the least damaging method to locate the odor first - don't immediately cut holes in your walls or floors unless absolutely necessary.
