Musty basement smells: Musty Smell in the Basement? 4 Steps to Freshness

Musty Smell in the Basement? 4 Steps to Freshness

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Q: Lately, I notice a musty smell whenever I go into my basement. What’s causing the odor and most how do I get rid of it?

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.

Although the majority of mold species found inside homes aren’t harmful to humans, some people are allergic to the spores and develop symptoms that include a stuffy or runny nose, headache, fatigue, coughing or wheezing, and itchy or runny eyes after spending time in a mildewed or moldy room. Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly called black mold, is linked to more serious symptoms, including chest tightness and difficulty breathing, a burning sensation in the nose and throat, dizziness, headache, and trouble concentrating. Luckily, however, black mold isn’t nearly as common as less toxic types.

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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; damage carpets; and eat away at wallpaper. Mold that’s reached this level requires the services of a professional trained in mold remediation, but you can easily deal with a simple case of funky mildew smell and mild mold staining yourself.

RELATED: 12 Big Mistakes That Lead to Mold and Mildew Growth

Simply banishing the odor won’t eliminate the issue, though; mold and mildew spores can start to multiply in as little as 24 hours if conditions are perfect, so to really conquer the stink, you must tackle the problem at the root by following these next four steps.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Look for leaks in the basement that might lead to mold and mildew growth.

Discovering the source of humidity in your basement is the key to vanquishing mold and mildew (and may alert you to other issues as well). Two common and easily handled problems are condensation dripping off an uninsulated pipe or water leaking through a basement window.

Many basements have exposed pipes running along the ceiling or down the walls. If you spot water “sweating” off these pipes, insulate them with foam pipe wrap, available at home improvement center for less than $10. The lengths of rubbery foam are pre-cut so you can easily slip them right over pipes. However, if the pipe is actively leaking, not just sweating, call a plumber without delay to repair it.
If your basement has windows, look for water running down the glass or puddling underneath the window when it rains. If you spot water, remove leaves and other debris that could be clogging the outside window wells. Fill the wells with gravel to help reduce the chance of clogs. Replace old weather stripping and caulk, as well, to seal any small leaks around the window frames.

If you see water coming through a crack in the basement wall or seeping up from the foundation, the problem is a serious one outside the scope of the typical homeowner’s DIY abilities. Contact a contractor who specializes in basement repairs and waterproofing.

Lower the humidity level to under 60 percent with a dehumidifier.

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.

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, and less hospitable to mold and mildew.

Among the several types of dehumidifiers available, a compressor dehumidifier is best suited to basements. These devices reduce air humidity by sucking the room air over chilled coils, causing the moisture to condense into a storage tank. A good choice an average-size basement is the Frigidaire 70-Pint Dehumidifier with Effortless Humidity Control (available at Amazon).

RELATED: The Best Dehumidifiers for Any Basement

Photo: istockphoto.com

Clean up all mold or mildew spores present.

Once you’ve gotten excess humidity under control, clean away the odor-producing mold and mildew.

Start by getting rid of any moldy or soggy cardboard boxes or other papers you’ve been storing in the basement. Mold thrives on paper products. Pack away salvageable holiday decorations and other items in large plastic containers with securely fitted lids.
Wash and dry any garments on the hottest settings safe for the fabric to remove mildew and mold spores.
Trash seriously stinky upholstered furniture, but try to save a lightly affected piece with spot treatment. First vacuum the piece (discarding the filter and bag when you’re done), then wipe it down thoroughly with a clean sponge dipped in a mixture of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol. Let it air dry completely outdoors in a sunny spot for several hours—UV rays of direct sunlight kill mold spores.
Next, tackle any spots of mold on the walls, ceiling, or floors with bleach. Mix four parts of water to one part of household bleach and take a stiff cleaning brush to the surface. Once the mold spots are gone, wipe the surfaces with clean water on a clean sponge and then let air-dry.

Neutralize the musty smell in the basement.

To remove any lingering musty smell, try the old-fashioned yet effective remedy of setting out a few small bowls of baking soda around the room; baking soda absorbs and neutralizes odor molecules well. Alternately, set out a few bowls of white vinegar, which also neutralize odor molecules. For more resistant smells, it’s hard to beat the moisture-and-odor-absorbing qualities of DampRid, which contains salt crystals. A four-pound tub, large enough for up to 1,000 square feet, should cost you less than $10 at Amazon.

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How to Get Rid of Musty Basement Smells

Lee Wallender

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years.

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Editorial Process

Updated on 06/30/22

Reviewed by

Deane Biermeier

Reviewed by
Deane Biermeier

Deane Biermeier is an expert contractor with nearly 30 years of experience in all types of home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Deane is a member of The Spruce’s Home Improvement Review Board.

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When you’ve lived with musty basement smells for long enough, it’s easy to start thinking that basements are supposed to be like this. Since it’s dark down there and close to the earth, isn’t this just something you need to live with?

Not necessarily. It’s true that basements’ qualities factor into the musty smells—being fully or partially below-grade, less light, less fresh air. But not all basements need to become musty. Plus, basements that are already musty can often be turned around with a few simple, inexpensive methods.

What Causes a Basement’s Musty Smell

You know it instantly. It’s unique and unmistakable: basement smell. You’ll never walk into a garage or even a bathroom and mistake its smell for that of a basement.

Basement musty smell is variously described as earthy or meaty, or similar to rotten wood, wet socks, mushrooms, or a wet dog. Adding in certain tangy or sweet notes brings the odor closer to that of a truly musty basement.

Identifying and understanding the causes of a basement’s musty smell is vital because these causes directly correlate to your solutions:

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are the chief drivers of basement musty smell. Both are fungi that thrive on water, oxygen, and food.

While often confused with each other, mold and mildew are actually different. Mold is usually thicker and higher, even developing a moss-like, fuzzy appearance. By contrast, mildew is flat. Mold can be colorful, ranging from dark greens to grays and blacks. Mildew is usually brown or gray, eventually turning to a white powder.

Good to Know

According to the EPA, headaches, nasal irritation, dizziness, fatigue, and nausea are sometimes a result of mold or mildew basement mustiness, but research is still inconclusive.

Other Basement Smell Contributors

With mold and mildew forming the majority of a basement’s musty smell, other causes can round off the smell and give it that singular odor:

Damp Materials: Drywall, fiberglass and rockwool insulation, and especially wood in all forms can add to a basement’s musty smell when wet and not allowed to properly dry out.
Sewage: Sewage lines typically run through the basement before continuing outside. Sewage problems can range from improperly fitted pipes that emit odors to liquid sewage spills from pipes.
Animal Waste: Rodent droppings look like dark grains of rice and can contribute to the sour smell in a basement. Not only that, rodent feces can spread diseases such as hantavirus and salmonella.
Iron Ochre or Iron Bacteria: Iron ochre looks like slimy mud. In fact, this vibrant red-brown wet material is a bacteria that feeds off of iron and adds a rotten-egg smell to the basement.

Steps to Ridding Your Basement of Musty Smells

Always begin with mold/mildew eradication, which also means eradicating or limiting moisture in the basement. When you rid your basement of mold and mildew, you have taken care of the main source of the basement musty smell.

Make Your Basement as Dry as Possible

Begin drying your basement by first drying the outside of your basement. Effective exterior water management can often stop the water before it even enters the basement.

Create a slope so that the soil next to the house is pitched down and away.
Create a drainage system that takes water far away from the house.
Create berms, barriers, or French drains in the yard to divert water.
Protect basement windows with window well covers.
Waterproof and dampproof the foundation wall with a liquid or solid membrane.
Install or fix drainpipes and gutters or clear them out.

Inside of the basement:

Coat the inside of the foundation with ready-mix waterproof coatings.
Install or fix a sump pump.
Install a system of dehumidifiers.

Best Basement Waterproofing Companies of 2022

Clean or Replace Moldy, Mildewy, or Damp or Rotted Materials

All wet or damp materials must be dried out as quickly as possible and cleaned or removed and replaced.

Floating (unattached to the subfloor) hard floorings such as laminate and vinyl can be pulled up and dried. If the underside of the laminate is waterlogged, it should be replaced.

Remove baseboards to pull back wall-to-wall carpeting and padding and examine the bottom. Circles usually indicate mildew spots. Black mold will be obvious as dark stains.

Tip

Research by the Carpet and Rug Institute shows that mildew is as much a function of dirt as it is of moisture. After all, not only does fungi need moisture but it needs food, and dirt and dust are often its food. So, whenever you dry out an area, thoroughly clean it, too.

Check and Repair Leaky Pipes

Your home is laced with pipes everywhere, starting with the water shutoff (where the water line enters the home, moving to the water heater, and back out again to bathrooms and the kitchen. Soil stacks carry unpleasant odors out of the house and equalize pressure on the pipes.

Inspect all visible pipes for leaks. Hidden pipes may run through ceilings and leak onto the drywall. It’s often worthwhile to hire a plumber to also check for pipe leaks.

Hire a Pest Control Company

For the occasional mouse or two, set traps. But if you have a persistent problem with rodents and insects, you may want to place your home under a pest control contract.

After an initial treatment, pest control technicians return on a regular basis. Pest control contracts are also important to have in place if you intend to sell your home, as they can often be a condition of sale.

Clean Any Iron Ochre

Wearing waterproof gloves, use a putty knife to scrape away large portions of the iron ochre slime. Follow with a rust remover. Likely, you will not be able to remove all of the color stains. But the majority of the odor-producing iron ochre will be gone.

How to Get Rid of That Musty Basement Smell

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Friday, August 6th by Kristina McGovern

Identify the cause behind your musty-smelling basement and find out what you can do to eliminate the foul odors for good.

Most musty basement smells are a symptom of a mold or mildew problem caused by excessive moisture.

That unmistakable musty smell, often described as being similar to that of a pair of wet socks or a wet dog, is the signature scent of mold and/or mildew. Most basements are damp and dark – ideal conditions for these fungi to thrive. Not only can their musty odor make its way up into the rest of your home, but mold spores can also cause allergy symptoms and structural problems.

If your basement smells musty after rain, when the weather is humid, or all the time, simply removing the odor won’t eliminate the problem. The first step to getting rid of the musty smell in your basement is identifying the source. Most of the time, the smell is a symptom of a mold or mildew problem caused by moisture. This guide will help you identify what’s making your basement smell musty and outline solutions for getting rid of the odors for good.

Look for leaks and condensation in the basement

Two common problems in a basement are condensation and water leaks. Depending on the source, some problems can be easily handled by a savvy homeowner while others require hiring a professional.

Condensation on uninsulated pipes is a common source of basement moisture.

Start by checking for these common causes of moisture in the basement and consider installing a dehumidifier to keep the moisture level in check (read more on this below):
- Condensation dripping off uninsulated pipes is a very common problem – and one of the easiest and least expensive to fix. If your pipes are “sweating,” wrap them in foam insulation to prevent condensation, which forms when warm, humid air comes in contact with the cooled pipes. If the water is coming from a leak, call a plumber to have it fixed.
- Water leaking through a basement window is usually easy to spot. When it rains, keep an eye out for water running down the glass or a puddle below the window. If you have window wells, remove leaves and other debris that could be clogging them. Install covers over the window wells to avoid clogs. Most small leaks around the window frames can be fixed with caulk and weather stripping. However, old rusty metal windows or rotted wood windows should be replaced.
- Water coming through a crack in the basement wall or seeping up through the floor sometimes requires installing a sump pump and drainage system, depending on the severity of the problem. While it’s recommended that you hire a contractor who specializes in basement waterproofing, there are some things you can do yourself to keep the water away from your basement. If your basement leaks when it rains or you spot water seepage, the causes can include leaky gutters, poor grading, hydrostatic pressure, and other factors. A basement waterproofing contractor can help with proper diagnosis and solutions to keep your basement dry.

Lower the humidity level with a dehumidifier

You have probably noticed that your basement tends to be cooler than the upper levels of your home during the warmer months. 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.

A SaniDry Sedona self-draining dehumidifier can keep basement humidity under control.

Moisture from the soil can also seep into the basement through the foundation, increasing the basement’s humidity level even further.

If water leaks and drainage issues have been repaired and you still notice a musty smell, consider installing a basement dehumidifier to control moisture and make the air feel more comfortable. Humidity levels should be kept between 45-55% to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Clean up all mold or mildew spores

If the foul smell in your home wasn’t bad enough, mold and mildew can stain your walls, floors, and ceilings; decay wood studs and drywall; and damage carpets. Mold exposure can cause health effects, including a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, wheezing, burning eyes, or a skin rash – with more severe reactions reported in people with a mold allergy or asthma (Centers for Disease Control).

Once water leaks have been fixed and the humidity level in your basement is under control, mold and mildew stains should be cleaned up. If your moldy basement still has moisture issues, consider hiring a Basement Systems contractor to fix your waterproofing issues and treat mold stains at the same time. It should be noted that cleanup of moldy areas larger than 10-square-feet (about a 3-foot by 3-foot patch) should be handled by a professional experienced in mold remediation (United States Environmental Protection Agency).

Follow these tips for thorough mold cleanup and prevention:
- Remove or discard damp or moldy cardboard boxes and upholstered furniture.
- Scrub away mold and mildew stains on the walls, floors, and ceiling using household bleach and a brush.
- Remove or replace damaged drywall and carpet that can’t be dried quickly. Consider using non-organic wall and flooring materials that are designed to be installed in areas with a lot of moisture.
- If the mold damage in the basement is extensive or if you’re unsure of how long the problem has been there, consider hiring a professional experienced in mold remediation.
- If there’s damaged items that are important, such as paper documents; expensive, such as artwork or antique furniture; or of sentimental value that you can’t clean yourself, hire a professional who specializes in cleaning mold-damaged items.

To help you identify if a basement water problem is the culprit or schedule a no-obligation evaluation and basement waterproofing cost estimate with the Basement Systems contractor near you.

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How to Get Rid of Musty Smell in Basement

Here’s How to Get Rid of that Mold Smell in the Basement

The basement can be one of the smelliest places in a home, and the odor can be caused by a variety of problems. If the basement smells musty, then it is most likely due to the presence of mold and mildew in your basement. Molds and mildew thrive in damp places. To prevent illness caused by mold and mildew, you need to remove the musty odor from your home.

The musty odor is often strongest during the spring and fall seasons when the windows are closed, and the utilities are not running. To avoid a musty odor in the basement, make sure you keep all areas of your home well ventilated.

What Causes the Musty Basement Smell?

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew not only cause odors in your basement, they can also damage the structural integrity of your home on porous surfaces such as wood if left unchecked. Much of the underlying structure of your home is made of wood, so make sure you treat mold early to prevent serious structural damage.

The mold spores can also cause or aggravate respiratory health issues like asthma and allergies. Often, respiratory illness is one of the earliest signs of a mold problem since they make people more sensitive to the presence of mold and mold spores.

It is also important to clean the air ducts on a regular basis and have the ventilation system checked at least once every two years. Mold in your basement can get into the ventilation and HVAC systems of your home, spreading the problem and mildew smell from basement throughout the rest of the home.

Damp Basements

Standing water tends to have a particular odor, a combination of mold and stagnation that is extremely unpleasant! If there’s dampness or standing water in your basement, you’re likely going to get mold if you haven’t already, so make sure the problem is addressed quickly.

There are two main causes of damp basements; water leaks and condensation (due to high humidity). If the basement has a musty or damp smell, it might be helpful to try getting a dehumidifier. You can also air out the room by opening the windows if your basement has any.

To prevent water leaks, make sure that the basement is waterproofed. Even a small leak can lead to a lot of moisture on the basement floors. If you can see leaks or water stains, then you should take care of it right away before they can lead to serious damage to the foundation of your home.

If you find a leak, make sure you inspect the area around the property to make sure that the water flows away from your house and not toward it. Downspouts must be extended at least six feet from the wall. And if you find water pooling near the walls, correct the slope right away, so that pooling along the walls is avoided.

Pets

Another common reason for musty smells in a basement is pets and pet supplies. Many people keep cat litter boxes, spare litter, or similar items in their basements to keep the smell out of their homes. However, this is usually fairly easy to rule out; just remove pet supplies from your basement temporarily to make sure that there’s not another reason for the musty smell- such as a hidden mold problem.

How to Get Rid Of The Musty Smell In Your Basement

As soon as you find out what it is, you need to get rid of that musty smell from the basement at the source. Just covering up the smell isn’t enough. You need to remove any mold and mildew quickly, and then place dehumidifiers, cat litter, or baking soda to absorb the moisture and any residual odor.

Cleaning Up Mold and Mildew

Mold and Mildew Cleaning Solution

If there is mold and mildew in your wet basement, you can begin killing mold with a few simple cleaning products that you most likely at home. All you need is to mix one-half cup of bleach with one gallon of warm water.

Place the solution in a spray bottle and clean the area of mold and mildew. Make sure that the windows are open to keep air circulating. You can use the cleaning solution on basement floors, bathrooms, walls, cement, laundry area, and other parts of the basement that will not have a reaction to bleach.

Another option is to use vinegar. A similar vinegar and water mixture can clean anything that you can’t put bleach on in your basement. Again, you’ll want to make sure that air is circulating. Once it’s clean, use bowls or cups of baking soda to absorb the vinegar smell from the air.

These methods work best if you don’t have a lot of severe mold or water damage. If you find quite a bit of damage make sure you call mold remediation professionals.

Use Kitty Litter or Baking Soda

Even if you don’t have any pet cats, you can use scented cat litter or baking soda to get rid of the moldy basement smell. Those two products tend to absorb moisture and odors. Just be careful; these items don’t actually fix the problem. All they do is hide the musty odor.

To remove the odor, all you need to do is place the litter or baking soda in an open container and put it in the basement. Make sure to change it out regularly. If you have a large basement, use multiple containers. This can also work well in vacant houses to keep them fresh smelling.

Removing Excess Moisture From The Air

If your basement is even partially underground, there’s a good chance the mold and mildew are coming from excess humidity in the air. There are several ways to maintain the level of humidity in the home, such as open windows and using dehumidifiers. 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.

Preventing Mold Growth

Preventing mold growth and mold exposure can be done simply and easily with a few easy steps. You start by alleviating any mold problems as soon as you notice them so that the smell (as well as the mold itself) doesn’t spread to the upper levels of your home.

It is important that you get rid of the main cause of the problem before you clean up the area. With mold removal, the smell will be less likely to return and prevent mold growing in the near future.

The best way to prevent future mold growth is to make sure that your basement isn’t too damp. There are a few ways you can do this:

Keep an eye out for any water leaks in your basement and repair them quickly before mold can grow.
Make sure there’s no standing water and plenty of ventillation in the area.
If the humidity in your basement is above 50%, consider getting a dehumidifier.
Check for air leaks in the basement that can let water enter.
Make sure that your downspouts are draining water far enough away from your foundation.
Check your vents for cracks and loose ducts.
Check for and repair any settlement cracks in the foundation of your home.
If flooding in your basement is a common problem, consider having a sump pump installed.

Do Dehumidifiers Help With Mold?

In short, yes. However, they are primarily helpful with minor mold issues and with preventing mold in the future. Mold grows in damp places, and dehumidifiers help reduce moisture. If you find large amounts of mold in your basement, your best bet is going to be to clean up the mold first, then work on preventative measures such as getting a dehumidifier.

If you need help with Mold Remediation or Odor Removal, give us a call at 888-777-9742!

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How to Get Rid of Basement Odor (10 Easy Methods)

Whether you use your basement as a game room, laundry room, storage, or a man cave — the last thing you need are weird smells.

In this post, we’ll teach you the varying causes of basement odors and different methods to get rid of it. So if your basement is smelling musty, damp or foul, we’re here to help.

How to Get Rid of Basement Odor

First, you must identify the cause of the odors. In many cases, you may need to contact a professional especially if it’s caused by dampness, rot, mold, mildew or sewage problems. You should also work on neutralizing the smells. Put out a few bowls of baking soda and spray distilled white vinegar around the room.

Table of Contents

Causes of Basement Odor
How to Get Rid of Basement Odor
Do I Need to Run a Dehumidifier in the Basement in Winter?
Does DampRid Work in Basements?
What Can I Use to Absorb Moisture in My Basement?
Back to Basics

Causes of Basement Odor

The first step to tackling basement odor is to find out where it is, what it is, and what caused it. Here are some of the most common causes of basement odor:

Mold and mildew: It’s quite common that the damp musty smell is mold and mildew. Because basements are sometimes warm and humid, it’s a thriving place for mold and mildew. If you’re allergic to mold and are experiencing allergy-like symptoms, then there’s a pretty good chance that’s the culprit.
Leaks and dampness: The smell could be coming from a leak, which has led to dampness. If you live in a particularly wet area, it could also be due to the weather. Check for leaks in your appliances or house’s piping to see if there’s damage.
Dirty basement: The odors could be coming from the simple reason that your basement isn’t clean. If your pets chill out down there, check for any urine or feces. Make sure to clean your basement regularly.
Sewage: Sewage problems can end up stinking out the basement. If you have plumbing issues, this can lead to bad odors. Check for cracked or loose sewer lines.
Iron ochre: Iron ochre shows up in wet basements. It appears as a rust-colored jelly-like ooze. It’s a little slimy and may show up on the walls or floors.

How to Get Rid of Basement Odor

Now that you’ve found the culprit of the smell, let’s tackle the odor. Each method will work better for specific causes, so make sure you know what is causing the odor first.

Call a Professional

Have you noticed mold, mildew, dampness, or other overwhelming problems? It may be the best idea to contact a professional.

True, you can fix these issues yourself. However, it may be easier and more effective to hire someone who is trained in these situations.

Cleaning mold and mildew isn’t everyone’s strong point. So get in touch with a local professional business to deal with this issue once and for all.

Fix Leaks

If you’ve found dampness and moisture in your basement because of an obvious leak, it’s time to fix that right away. Whether that’s from a window, a pipe, or an appliance — you should follow manufacturer’s advice on how to repair or replace it.

One example is leaky pipes. If your basement has exposed pipes that are visibly coated in condensation, you should insulate the pipes with a foam pipe wrap. You’ll find these at hardware and home improvement stores. You can easily cut them yourself to slip them over the pipes. If the pipe is leaking though, call a plumber.

As for leaky windows, fill the window wells with gravel to reduce clogs and moisture. Make sure to replace old weather stripping and caulk, as well as resealing leaks around the frame.

Run a Dehumidifier

The more moisture that’s in your basement, the more likely it is to smell damp and host mold. So get out your dehumidifier, or buy one of our favorites, and get it running in the basement.

We recommend setting the humidity level to 60 percent. This will lower moisture levels in the basement so it’s less likely for mold and mildew to thrive.

Pro Tip

If you’re not sure your basement would benefit from a dehumidifier, buy a hygrometer and check the humidity level of your basement. If it’s above 60, we recommend getting a dehumidifier.

Clean Mold and Mildew Spores

It is wise to tackle the root of the issue and make sure the mold can’t grow anymore. But you should also tackle the existing mold and mildew spores.

Remove all damp items, such as cardboard boxes, papers, and decorations.

Make sure to wash all affected clothing. Use the hottest water possible and tumble dry if the clothing allows. Spot treat mold on furniture but keep in mind you may have to sacrifice badly affected furniture pieces.

Use bleach to clean mold off floors and walls.

When in doubt, contact a professional and they can help!

Neutralize Smells

For simple odors, or to just freshen up the basement after tackling a big mold breakout, you should work on neutralizing the smells. This is a tried but true tip. Place a few bowls of baking soda around the room to absorb and neutralize the odors.

You could also spray distilled white vinegar around the room which can also neutralize odors.

If this doesn’t work, try a product called DampRid. This traps moisture, eliminates odors, and creates cleaner air.

Remove Standing Water

If you’ve had a big leak or a flood, you need to immediately remove the standing water. We recommend calling your local disaster restoration experts to help out with this big job.

Ultimately, you need to get the water pumped out, dry the home and check for signs of mold and rot caused by the water.

Call a Plumber

If the bad smells are coming from a plumbing issue, a sewage issue, or iron ochre, it’s time to call a plumber. They can check and fix for clogged pipes, blocked trains and rot. They can also replace corroding pipes.

Once they locate and solve a problem, you may notice an immediate change to your basement odors!

Deep Clean

It may be that you don’t have mold, mildew, dampness, rot or sewage problems. Perhaps your basement just needs a deep clean! If you use your basement for storage, and it’s super cluttered, there won’t be good airflow which can lead to bad smells.

Get rid of anything you don’t need anymore and deep clean your basement. This means cleaning the ceilings, walls, floors, closets and all nooks and crannies. Vacuum the floors and mop thoroughly.

Clean the Dryer Vent

A specific tip but one that may make all the difference, especially if your dryer is in the basement. Start outside where the dryer vent exits and clean it all the way to the base of the dryer.

There may be blockages which allow moisture to build up in your home. You may also be subject to rodents hanging out in the vent since the lint and warm temperature is a great place for them!

Fix Cracks

Lastly, you may have a structural problem. In that case, you must fix the cracks immediately. You can do this yourself or contact a professional. You can use an epoxy solution or polyurethane but make sure to keep an eye on the crack so that you notice any future damage.

Meanwhile, check the gutters for clogs as these can divert the water over the foundation of your home.

If you have a crack and it’s led to moisture, make sure to tackle the moisture, dampness, and potential rot, too.

Do I Need to Run a Dehumidifier in the Basement in Winter?

This depends on a few different circumstances. First of all, you should get a hygrometer to check your humidity level. If it’s above 50 in the winter, you will benefit from running a dehumidifier. We recommend setting it to 40 percent.

Another factor is where you’re located. If you live in a super cold area, you may not need to run a dehumidifier in the winter. But if your basement stays pretty warm (above 60°F) there’s a good chance you should run your dehumidifier.

Overall, if you use a dehumidifier in the winter, keep an eye on the moisture levels. You don’t want the room to be too dry or cold, especially if you have appliances down there that could freeze.

Does DampRid Work in Basements?

It sure does! As mentioned previously, DampRid can trap moisture, eliminate odors and make the air cleaner. However, if you have had a big leak, we still recommend hiring a professional to deal with the root of the problem. Use DampRid as a final step.

What Can I Use to Absorb Moisture in My Basement?

To absorb some excess moisture in your basement, you have many options:

Install a dehumidifier.
Use container desiccant packs. Just be sure to replace when they’re full.
Place charcoal briquettes in a tin or box and put them around the basement.
Put bowls of baking soda around the basement. Make sure to switch them out every couple of days.
Place a container of rock salt in the basement. Replace every few weeks.
Install a fan to circulate the air in the basement.

Back to Basics

Once you have discovered the cause of your basement odor and tackled it accordingly, you can have a super fresh basement once again!

Do you want to throw parties down there, have a great laundry routine or use your basement for storage? Then it’s important to prevent mold, midlew, moisture build up and in turn, bad odors.

Our 10 methods can help, but when in doubt, always contact a professional.

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How Do I Get Rid Of Musty Smells In My Home Basement?

There was once a horror flick entitled: Don’t Look In The Basement.

While the plot, which barely thickened, concerned a young nurse and her terrifying experiences working in an isolated asylum, it should be noted that basements everywhere (finished and otherwise) can be sources of phobic madness, poor housekeeping and the musty smells of old and forgotten things.

Due to the fact that they are underground, basements (and cellars) have their own unique and usually damp state of being, requiring their own arsenal of odor-control product solutions.

Our Basement Odor Control Kit Includes:

The Aroma One Smart air freshener diffuser
Effective Odor Control Squair Wafer Refills
Fresh Strap air fresheners

Buy our Basement Odor Control Kit, or read on to explore a detailed list of efforts that you can do to eliminate musty odors and their source within your home’s basement.

These efforts, combined with the arsenal of industrial strength air freshening and odor neutralizing products within our kit that will help keep your basement smelling fresh, clean and must-free!

Why Do Basements Smell So Bad?

Basements are ideal environments for mold and mildew and the fetid, musty smells that ensue.

Their temperatures are always much cooler than those of the rest of the house, and cooler air cannot retain as much moisture as the warmer, upper levels of the home.

These particularly cold, moist surfaces are the perfect breeding ground for mold, and the darker they are, the better the growth.

Successfully removing foul odors from a basement can only occur with the elimination of the excessive moisture that flourishes within the mold and mildew that grows in the crevices of concrete walls in unfinished basements and inside drywall in those that are finished.

The Ultimate Guide To Eliminate Musty Basement Smells

The following 11 suggestions come from an array of industry professionals and cover how to both prevent unpleasant basement smells from arising and/or how to eliminate them if they have already taken hold.

If bad odors persist, it is time to find better products to do the job, which should include commercial-grade aroma diffusers, speciality air fresheners and products that contain vaporous odor neutralizing additives — more on those products below!

Throw Out Everything With Mold On It

If mold has damaged porous organic materials, such as: boxes; chipboards; books; rugs; carpets, old clothes; shoes; papers; soft furnishings or fiberglass insulation, toss them in plastic trash bags and dispose of them right away to prevent further damage.

In most cases, there is no point in spending money to clean these materials, and it is better to simply replace them to avoid continuous mold growth.

Sand Away Any Mold And Vacuum Up The Dust

Before you do any type of clean up of mold, it is recommended to use a proper mask, available at your local hardware store, along with goggles and rubber gloves.

Using sandpaper will help to remove mold that has penetrated deeply into the wood.

Vacuum up the dust using a HEPA filter. This type of filter effectively traps pathogens, allergens and mold spores before they can spread into the air.

Use Vinegar And Baking Soda To Kill Mold And Deodorize

If mold has occurred on hardwood floors or wooden furniture and salvaging is possible, the material must be taken outside and given a thorough cleaning with vinegar and baking soda.

For floors that have surface mold and obviously cannot be taken outside, cleaning must be done with all windows open to allow for proper ventilation.

Begin the process by spraying affected areas with white vinegar, which studies have indicated is a powerful agent that simultaneously kills 82% of all mold species and eliminates nasty odor.

Allow the vinegar to absorb for about 20 minutes before proceeding.

Use a clean cloth, to wipe away the mold.

For stubborn mold, scrub the area with a stiff brush and a solution of about 1/8 cup of white vinegar and 1 gallon of water.

A borax solution is sometimes preferred to remove black mold on floor joists.

After getting rid of mold, spritz the furniture with either white vinegar or a tea tree oil solution.

This will kill any remaining mold spores, which are not visible to the naked eye.

Any musty smells can be eliminated with the application of baking soda.

For hard-to-reach places, a baking soda spray using just enough water to form a liquid, will suffice.

Leave furniture out to dry in direct sunlight, but not for too long a period of time.

For flooring and walls, don’t use too much water while cleaning and open up the windows and/or turn on fans to quicken the drying process.

Get Rid of Darkness and Stagnant Air

If a basement lacks windows and sunlight, homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier to control the moisture level.

If there is a window, it should be opened during dry, cool weather so that sunshine and fresh air can permeate the interior.

The moisture from the air in warm, cold, or wet temperatures encourages mildew growth, making it inadvisable to open any window in hot, cold or rainy weather.

Use A Dehumidifier Or Dessiccant Packs

An electric dehumidifier running continuously, and emptying when full, will help control the atmosphere.

In addition, dessiccant packs can effectively trap the airborne particles that are the source of the musty smell and are particularly useful in out-of-reach places or corners where moisture might be condensing.

They should be replaced frequently.

Install Window Fans To Circulate The Air In & Out The Window

Adding window fans to your basement windows can increase ventilation and air circulation to help reduce the amount of moisture there, but they should not be used year round.

They work best to freshen up the basement air on cool, dry days.

Consider Alternative Cleaning Agents

For most mold infestations, any combination of vinegar, baking soda, soap and water is enough for thorough removal. Stubborn black mold infestations, however, may require a more potent blend of ingredients.

These could include: borax, hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil, chlorinated lime, or even bleach.

A good natural cleaning choice is borax.

Mix a cup of it with a gallon of hot water and apply with a clean rag. Provide extra water to rinse the affected area, as it is likely to retain a powdery white residue.

If bleach is the selected option, it should not be mixed with any other ingredients including vinegar.

Blending with anything other than water is dangerous because it can create toxic chlorine fumes.

It should be used only on tile because bleach can damage wood and paint.

Again, it is highly recommended to use a proper mask along with goggles and rubber gloves when dealing with mold removal.

Insulate Pipes To Prevent Dripping

Covering pipes in insulation will prevent water from condensing and dripping, which is a haven for mildew spores.

Repair Leaks and Cracks And Clean Out Air Ducts

Leaky pipes and wall cracks should be repaired as soon as they are discovered.

This may require outside help form a contractor depending on the severity of the issue.

Musty, fetid basement smells can emanate from air conditioning ducts where mold may have grown in the ductwork of the crawl space.

Our products can do wonders in eradicating these persistent malodors.

Install Plastic Vapor Barriers

Plastic vapor barriers can prevent odorous air from seeping through ceilings, walls, floors and coal storage areas in the basement. Doing this may save hundreds or thousands of dollars of energy and time spent cleaning up mold and dehumidifying.

Prevent Any Groundwater Flooding

Problems with outdoor water pooling or groundwater flooding must be addressed immediately. Doing so not only controls mold and mildew, but also ensures that the foundation of a home isn’t compromised. Consider installing a perimeter drainage system, French drain and even sump pumps to prevent ground or surface water from basement ingress.

Properly Replace Or Seal Dryer Vent Pipes

The laundry dryer vent pipes can be a major cause of basement mold and mildew and should be sealed with duct tape. Even though the dryer vent pipe will take much of the heat and moisture from the clothes outside, some of that moisture may condense on the walls and pipes.

Use Effective Air Freshener And Odor Control Products

The ongoing use of effective, industrial-strength air freshening and odor neutralizing products will continue to ensure your basement remains fresh, clean and odor-free.

The Basement Odor Control Product Package

Our mission is to bring the most effective solutions to homeowners in the form of affordable, industrial strength air-freshener and odor-control products.

We aim to reinforce the do it yourself concept, which is fine as long as things are done correctly and homeowners know how to avoid the pitfalls of Murphy’s Law, which lurks around every carpeted corner. (Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.) But sometimes even the best of air freshening and odor efforts require professional help.

The following are a tried and true arsenal of products that guarantee the best results for eliminating stubborn basement odors, which we sell individually or packaged and discounted within our Musty Basement Odor Control Kit.

The Aroma One Air Freshener Dispenser

Although primarily designed for professional use in diffusing scent and eliminating malodors in commercial settings, the Odyssey Air Freshener is an extremely versatile air-freshening system that can work well in many diverse areas, including basements, attics, kitchens, bathrooms and many other areas in your home.

Constructed from high-impact, durable polymers, it eliminates musty odors and freshens the air by providing three-way ventilation for maximum air flow, which aids in the evaporation process.

It can accommodate both small and large areas and is available in battery or electric versions. It is easy to install and available in four color options designed to match nearly every decor — white, black; almond and gray.

Our Effective Odor Control Squair Wafer Refills

Our SQUAIR dry wafer refills offer effective, continuous fragrance lasting freshness and effective odor control and are designed to work within our Aroma One air freshening diffuser!

Individually wrapped to insure freshness, these wafer-style refills are perfectly suitable for optimum air freshening and odor-control with no spilling and no mess.

There are 12 refills packed in every case and come in an array popular scents that run the gamut of the human imagination.

They include names like: Golden Mango; Island Breeze; Jazzmania; Sugar Plum; Warm and Nutty and Rain, just to name a few.

Our Fresh Strap Air Fresheners

Our highly versatile Fresh Straps will dramatically improve odor control in just about any area where malodors persist and provide ambient fragrance enhancement to boot.

Also known as “smell belts,” any basement interior can benefit from fresh strap placement, as they are guaranteed to provide consistent air-freshening and neutralization of transient odors when wrapped around pipes, posts and other areas.

Their odor-neutralizing power comes from their infusion with Metazene, the King Kong of odor-fighting additives, that surpasses the capabilities of any odor neutralizer on the market today.

For ultimate performance, choose the Extreme scent version.

Metazene Odor Neutralizing Surface And Wall Spray

Available in a gallons and transferred to quart-sized sprayers with a fresh mint scent, our oil-based Metazene Wall Spray works effective and different than standard water-based deodorizer products, which utilize perfume and water and rely on enzymes to eliminate odors.

When our Wall Spray is applied regularly to surfaces as needed, being sure to test any painted, varnished or plastic materials prior to application, odors are effectively neutralized.

Metazene Wall Spray, with industrial science and technology, attacks and destroys malodors at their molecular level.

This is a far more permanent solution that most retail products, which at best only serves to temporarily mask bad smells.

Metazene Wall Spray creates a neutralizing atmosphere because the foul smelling molecules attach themselves to the Metazene particles, which trap and lock in malodors.

In conclusion

So what are you waiting for?! Follow the above steps, order our basement odor control kit and finally make your basement smell fresh again and eliminate musty odors once and for all!

Final thoughts about basement odors: If something bad smells in the basement, it will eventually make its way to the attic. ~ Anthony Liccione.

How Do I Get Rid Of Musty Smells In My Home Basement?

1) Throw out everything with mold on it

2) Sand away any mold and vacuum up the dust

3) Use vinegar and baking soda to kill mold and deodorize

4) Get rid of darkness and stagnant air

5) Use a dehumidifier or dessiccant packs

6) Install window fan to circulate the air in & out the window

7) Consider alternative cleaning agents insulate pipes to Prevent dripping

8) Repair leaks and cracks and clean out air ducts

9) Install plastic vapor barriers

10) Prevent any groundwater flooding

11) Properly seal all of your dryer vents

12) Use effective air freshener and odor control products

What Are The Best Odor Control Products For Basements?

1) Fresh Strap Air Fresheners

2) Metazene Odor Neutralizing Surface And Wall Spray

3) The Odyssey Commercial Restroom Fan Air Freshener

4) The Odyssey Restroom Odor Control Squair Air Refills

How to get rid of the musty smell in the basement

1.

Find and neutralize the source

The first step to getting rid of musty smells in the basement is to determine where it comes from. In most cases, the smell is simply a symptom of a real problem, namely mold or mildew caused by moisture.

Here are a few places to check for cracks or leaks that could be causing an odor:

Basement windows (drains are not directing water the right way – towards the house, not away from it?)
External basement entrances
Windows above
Exterior doors above
Plumbing in bathroom and kitchen above

It is also possible that groundwater is causing the problem. If the slope of the ground around your house points back towards the basement, water will eventually seep in.

You can also hire a contractor to dig in the foundation and install a drainage system to drain the water. Very damp basements may require internal drainage leading to a sump to control groundwater.

If the basement smells moldy but you’re sure there are no leaks behind the walls, the smell may be coming from a drain in a dry floor or a siphon under a sink. Since these units are not often inspected, the liquid in the trap (siphon) blocking sewer gases can dry out. Spilling a few liters of water down the drain every now and then can make a difference, as they often become a problem when a dry basement smells.

Be aware that musty odors can also be associated with pet odors on furniture or carpets. If everything is waterproof and dry, and the siphons are full of water, chances are that the problem is with the fabric of the carpets or upholstered furniture.

2. Make repairs

Even if you can temporarily get rid of the musty smell in the basement, it will return if you do not solve the problem. Windows and doors will leak whenever it rains, and cracked or leaking pipes will continue to cause problems until you replace them. If your cold water pipes are sweaty, you can insulate them with pipe wrap.

Severe foundation leaks may require external excavation and application of a waterproofing membrane. Otherwise, you can cover the inside of the foundation with waterproofing impregnation.

Do not forget to dispose of wet materials as well. You can remove mold from wet drywall, concrete, and wood, but fungus-infested drywall or insulation is easier to remove than repair.

3. Control the humidity

Dry the basement after repair. The easiest way to remove moisture is to use a dehumidifier. These devices draw moisture from the air and condense it into a removable reservoir that can be removed and emptied. In some cases, it is possible to route the drain hose to a floor or sink drain, eliminating the need to empty the reservoir. Dehumidifiers are great for basements.

Aim for a humidity level of around 50 percent to keep the space comfortable but not conducive to mold growth (which is over 60 percent). You can also use a floor or built-in fan to improve ventilation and air movement for faster drying.

4. Deodorize

Now that the humidity is under control, you can finally get rid of musty amber. The process is simple and you may already have everything you need.

Place bowls of baking soda in basement areas. The baking soda will begin to absorb odors, and within a few days the air in your basement will change dramatically. You can also use bowls of white vinegar or clean cat litter, both of which absorb odors well.

While the absorbents absorb odors, clean the entire basement as best you can. A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar is inexpensive, and you can use it to spray surfaces or mop floors. Be sure to pay special attention to areas where mold has been present.

Carpets and upholstery can trap odors and continue to smell like mold long after the basement is clean and dry. If you have carpets or upholstered furniture in your basement, consider purchasing a carpet and furniture steamer to give them a thorough cleaning.

With these tips, your basement should smell fresh for a week. It’s important to keep an eye on leaks, make sure the siphons stay full, and continue to control moisture levels with a dehumidifier. If you stick to this routine, your basement will be odor free for years to come.

If you are unable to cope on your own, it is better to contact specialists. We provide the following types of services: floor waterproofing, structural reinforcement, waterproofing of utility lines, swimming pool waterproofing. A complete list of services can be found on the website.

Types of work we do:

Basement waterproofing

From the day our company was founded, we strive to provide the highest quality repair services. Interact with clients in a friendly manner.

Injection of concrete

Injection allows you to quickly eliminate cracks, chips, internal voids and other defects in concrete. The technology involves filling with special protective materials that strengthen and seal the treated area.

Soil Injection

When injected, all cracks are filled, so this reinforcement effectively restores the integrity of the base. In addition, foundation structures are protected from erosion by groundwater.

Injectable waterproofing

Ground water and precipitation are hazardous to most building structures. High humidity destroys even durable concrete, damages metal fittings and brickwork, violates the tightness of underground structures and tanks. Therefore, high-quality waterproofing is a necessary part of construction.

Reinforcement of structures

Reinforcement of buildings and structures always begins with a thorough examination of surface and underground structural elements of the surrounding area. During the inspection, the type of existing damage is determined and recorded, as well as the degree of their severity.

Ground grouting

Ground grouting under the base may be required due to both errors in the original design and the need to increase the bearing capacity of the foundation (for example, to add an additional floor).

Strengthening of soils

Strengthening is carried out when weak or oversaturated soils become an obstacle for construction.

Brick repair

Comprehensive repair of brick structures often includes not only restoring the integrity of the surface, but also its waterproofing. Reliable protection against water prevents further destruction of the structure and extends its service life.

Repair of waterproofing

There are several typical reasons for the violation of the waterproofing layer. The most common is the use of low-quality materials. This is especially true for buildings of previous years of development.

Foundation drainage

We offer to order all drainage works to protect the foundation from water in one place.

Drainage of a turnkey site

Turnkey basement waterproofing is an effective solution that can protect reinforced concrete, concrete, and other structures from moisture.

Foundation waterproofing

We provide services for both owners of existing houses and those who are just planning to build. You can consult with us at any stage in order to select effective materials and clarify the cost of work.

Waterproofing of cracks

Timely waterproofing of cracks protects concrete from groundwater, simplifies maintenance and increases the overall life of the building.

Terrace waterproofing

In Damar Technology, you can order waterproofing services for terraces of any size – from small ones of 10-12 m2 to large ones with a usable area of more than 100 m2.

Tank waterproofing

Tanks can be insulated both from inside and outside. Work must be carried out before commissioning.

Waterproofing of parking lots

Regardless of the method chosen by the customer, waterproofing of the underground parking will be carried out in compliance with the technology and using quality materials.

Waterproofing expansion joints

Causes and consequences of joint leakage can be different, so before choosing the optimal repair tactics, it is necessary to examine the problem area.

Waterproofing of metro tunnels

Polyurethane resins, acrylate, epoxy, cement compositions are used for tunnel injection. The type of material is selected taking into account the location of the leak and the features of the underground structure.

Elevator shaft waterproofing

In order to reliably protect the elevator pit, waterproofing can be done using several materials.

Manhole waterproofing

Despite the constant emergence of new building materials, concrete rings are still widely used for arranging wells. They are suitable for the construction of drinking water sources, storage type septic tanks and other tasks.

Waterproofing of buildings and structures

One of the classic types of insulation is coating with plastic liquid mastics. They are applied to the surface and form a waterproof coating.

Waterproofing of utility lines

If the entry points of networks to buildings are reliably sealed at the construction stage, the risk of leaks in these areas will be minimal.

Pool waterproofing

The outer waterproofing layer protects the pool from ground water that can penetrate from the soil.

Waterproofing of balconies

Various materials are used to protect balconies and loggias from water, including mastics, dry mixes, sheet and roll waterproofing.

More details

Show full list of services

How to get rid of the smell of dampness in the apartment, tips for cleaning mold

August 05, 2020

The characteristic musty smell of mold is not only unpleasant for a person, but also harmful to his health. Fungal spores move freely in the air, settle on the skin and inevitably end up in the respiratory system. If you do not immediately begin to solve the problem when mold occurs in the house, this will negatively affect your well-being. Dry cough, allergies, fatigue, persistent headaches, nosebleeds and asthma are not all the consequences of dampness in the apartment.

Today we will talk about why the house smells of dampness, and show you how to remove the musty smell from the room. It is possible to eliminate sources of unwanted aroma both by folk methods and by specialized means.

How do you know if you have a problem?

The fungus is not always visible to the naked eye, so you need to focus on your sense of smell. What does mold smell like in an apartment? Something caustic, “basement”, this aroma can be associated with stagnant water and mud. Condensation often begins to form on the windows in the room.

The main causes of mold

The main secret to removing mold and unpleasant odors in the room is to eliminate the cause of the problem. If you simply mask the characteristic aroma of dampness with something, health will still be at risk. The reasons for the musty smell in the house include:

Flooding . If the neighbors accidentally flooded your apartment, then high humidity in the room cannot be avoided. In the warm season, with mild flooding, you can try to dry the apartment naturally; in winter, this process is much slower, especially if the house has poor ventilation. Only repair with a primer of the walls with compositions with antibacterial additives will help to remove the mold after the “grand” flood. For the future, it is worth thinking about waterproofing the ceiling.
Accommodation on the ground floor . Why does a private house smell of dampness? The reason is in damp basements with old pipes that have not been replaced for a long time. Increased humidity seeps through the pipes to the floor, walls and ceiling of the room, which leads to a problem. This reason for the musty smell is typical for the basements of both private and apartment buildings.
Accommodation in an old private house . The question often arises why there is a smell of dampness in a wooden house. Wood is one of those materials that quickly absorb moisture and unpleasant odors, and they last a very long time, especially in combination with poor ventilation.
Problems with plumbing and ventilation . If the pipes are poorly insulated and condensation forms on them, this can cause an unpleasant smell in the apartment. If the ventilation is not working properly, it will allow steam to circulate from the bathroom and kitchen into the living areas. The steam cools and then settles on the walls. They become saturated with moisture, which leads to the formation of fungus.

The risk of the problem is especially high in rooms that are always damp. For example, the bathroom smells of damp more often than other rooms. These areas need special attention. When you understand why there is an unpleasant smell and mold, it’s time to figure out what to do if the house smells of dampness.

How to get rid of the smell of mold: we solve the problem

When eliminating unpleasant damp odors, a clear plan of action is needed:

After the flood . To completely remove fungi and unwanted “ambre” it is better to make a thorough repair. Before starting work, open all the windows in the apartment for proper ventilation: it helps to dry the walls, ceilings, floors. To prevent the appearance of mold spots, a primer with an antibacterial effect is used. If the flood was not strong, you can do without repairs: heaters are simply installed in the house. Special odor and moisture absorbers allow you to save bed linen, carpet, clothes and other things. How to get rid of the smell of dampness in the house if the mold has already attacked the slopes and corners? Treat these areas with a composition with chlorine.
In the bathroom . First of all, you need to determine where the dampness in this room comes from. If the seams of the tile act as a source of an unpleasant odor, you should pay attention to the operation of the ventilation and, if necessary, repair it. A heated towel rail will help prevent the appearance of a characteristic aroma. To get rid of mildew smells in your bathroom, regularly clean the surfaces with a steam cleaner or a product that contains bleach.
Wardrobe . Have you discovered that the source of the musty smell in the house is a closet with clothes in which dampness has formed? Remove all things from the furniture, shake them and dry them in the fresh air for 48-72 hours. If there are signs of mold on the clothes, they must first be washed and then ironed. To remove the fungus and the unpleasant smell of mold, wipe the inner surfaces of the cabinet with an vinegar solution. The doors are left open until completely dry.
Upholstered furniture . If a characteristic smell of dampness has appeared on your favorite armchair or sofa, you need to take them out to fresh air for 48 hours. Under the sunlight, they warm up properly. You can also dry upholstered furniture with a household heater. You can completely remove the source of unwanted odor by replacing the upholstery. Another way is to pour green tea or coffee on the furniture and leave it overnight.

Tip! To prevent your shoes from smelling bad, use special deodorants regularly or treat with ammonia and salt.

Getting rid of dampness with folk remedies

Let’s discuss how to remove the smell of dampness in the house with the help of folk remedies. Most of the ingredients for their preparation are in any home. We have prepared a selection of compounds that allow you to effectively remove mold in an environmentally friendly and harmless way:

Soda ash solution . It is taken in the amount of 3 tablespoons, mixed with half a liter of pure water and 10 drops of essential oils with a pleasant aroma for you, for example, citrus. It is used for processing tiles, painted and putty surfaces.
Vinegar solution . The main ingredient is mixed with water in a ratio of 1 to 3. Add it to the spray bottle. Vinegar helps prevent the spread of mold on clothes. In addition, it can be used instead of a bathroom freshener by combining it with essential oil.
Vinegar & Baking Soda All Purpose Cleaner . Take 100 ml of vinegar, half a liter of hot water (up to 80 degrees), 1 tbsp. l. any liquid soap and the same amount of soda. The ingredients are mixed and added to the spray bottle. To remove the sources of unpleasant odor and dampness, a sponge is moistened in the resulting composition and stains are treated on any surfaces. Then the rest of the mixture is washed off with water.
Starch . It allows you to remove the smell of bloomed from knitwear. Starch is scattered on the fabric, after 7-10 minutes the thing is shaken out. If you need to process dark clothes, do the same with coffee grounds.
Copper sulfate . The tool is used if the walls in the house are soaked with dampness. You need to take 30 g of copper sulfate and combine with a liter of warm water and a spoonful of vinegar. The composition is applied to a previously cleaned with sandpaper and washed, thoroughly dried wall. If necessary, the procedure is repeated.
Furacilin . Another way to thoroughly combat the smell of mustiness in the apartment. 10 antiseptic tablets are mixed with a glass of water. The affected wall is treated with the composition, having previously cleaned the fungus with sandpaper.

Special anti-damp products

Don’t have the time or desire to bother with homemade formulas? Is the indoor damp situation very serious? Shop products will help get rid of the smell of rot and mold:

Vanish . Allows you to remove mold stains and refresh light-colored laundry.
White . Suitable for processing light-colored fabrics of a natural type. Contains chlorine.
Pure Washer . Helps to remove unfavorable odor from clothes and washing machine.
Dali . If your home smells of damp, use a universal antiseptic to treat any surface.
Alpa . A fungicide helps to remove musty odor and mold from the inside and outside of the home. Before use, remove the top layer of loose surfaces. Does not spoil glossy and varnish coverings.
Biotol . The antiseptic composition in spray format is convenient to use for processing any things in the apartment. The fungus will disappear even from the surface of the fences in a private house.
Mavix-Bio . Helps to remove the smell of mold and dampness in combination with a water repellent. First you need to treat the walls with impregnation, and then with an antiseptic. Follow the instructions, repeat the procedure if necessary.

Mold prevention: what do the experts advise?

So, we figured out what to do if the house smells of mold. Now you should take care of preventing the occurrence of a problem in the future. Simple tips will help:

Dry washed clothes outside or on the balcony, do not leave them in the tub of the washing machine for a long time.

It is recommended, if possible, to eliminate “extra” sources of moisture. Perhaps there will be less unpleasant odors in the house if you part with another houseplant. The liquid evaporates from leaves and soil and spreads indoors. Be sure to wipe the floor after showering or taking a bath.

Wet mop thoroughly. Wipe the treated surfaces with a dry cloth.

It would be useful to equip windows with ventilation valves.

How to get rid of the smell of dampness in the apartment, especially in the bathroom, toilet and kitchen? Check the operation of the ventilation system!

Regularly check walls and ceilings for black spots, characteristic of dampness and mold.

Found a bad sign? Immediately treat the ceiling and walls with hydrogen peroxide and water, and then rinse off this composition.

Domovyonok specialists know what kills the smell of mold, how to remove an unpleasant odor that comes from different sources, what is needed to prevent the problem. We are ready to help you eliminate dangerous dampness and even the most persistent, characteristic aromas of it. Our experts use only hypoallergenic products with a gentle composition in their work.

How to remove musty smell from linen: proven and safe methods

Sometimes washed clothes in the closet begin to exude far from fresh aromas, and then the question arises – how to remove musty smell from linen? The most effective way is a new wash. All things must be washed again in a washing machine, with the addition of powder and rinse aid, and then dried in the sun. If there is no time for this, you can use one of the proven methods.

A quick way to get rid of the musty smell of clothes

If things are “suffocated” while lying in the closet, you can eliminate the smell as follows:

take all the laundry outside in good hot weather and hang it on a rope. Sometimes this is enough to eliminate the musty smell;
place a container with coffee beans in the cupboard near the clothes. Coffee will absorb the musty aroma and prevent it from arising in the future;
Herbs are good odor absorbers. Dried stems and flowers of lavender, mint and lemon balm, harvested according to the season, should be folded into cloth bags and laid out in a closet.

You can mask the smell by using a bar of soap placed under the laundry. In the future, things in the closet should be removed only after they have been thoroughly dried and ironed. Periodically they need to be taken out and shaken.

Eliminate musty odors with bleach

Often the cause of things smelling bad after washing is mold or fungus that occurs in a cold and poorly ventilated room. Often, mustiness appears as a result of insufficient drying of linen or untimely removal of washed items from the machine. Getting rid of this problem is not easy, but there is one proven way that is suitable for white underwear.

This remedy is chlorine, which will really solve the problem:

kill fungi and molds that are the source of bad smell;
remove stains from laundry;
Refresh fabric to remove musty odors.

If the smell is old and firmly ingrained in the fibers, then it is better to soak the laundry in water, adding about 100 ml of bleach to 5 liters of water. After soaking for 5-8 hours, the thing is washed in a typewriter or by hand in the usual way.

You can put things directly into the washing machine, add the right amount of liquid detergent. When the drum is filled with warm water, 200 ml of bleach should be added to the powder compartment. After washing, the laundry must be thoroughly dried in the sun.

Vinegar and soda for musty smells from laundry

All things that for some reason suddenly began to exude a fetid odor should be put into the washing machine (not very tightly), and then turn on the quick wash. When the drum is filled with water, you need to pour ordinary table vinegar into the powder compartment. Before rinsing, you need to press a pause, for about 20-30 minutes, so that the laundry is soaked in acid. After turn on the start and wait for the end of the wash. So that things do not “smell” of vinegar as a result, you need to pour a special liquid into the rinse aid compartment and select the “rinse” mode. Then clean and fresh things are hung on the dryer, after which they are put away in the closet.

A well-known odor absorber is baking soda. It is often used as a disinfectant, which allows you to simultaneously remove pathogenic flora and clean fabrics (dishes, carpets, etc.). To eliminate the musty smell from the fabric, you need to put it in the washing machine, adding 100 g of baking soda instead of powder. Wash on a quick wash using the soak procedure.

Before putting clean linen in the closet, all shelves must be wiped to remove mold and mildew. You can do this with water with the addition of whiteness, vinegar or baking soda. You can use any detergent suitable for cleaning furniture.

Smelloff odor remover

Smelloff is a universal solution designed to eliminate unpleasant odors of various etiologies. Thanks to its unique composition, the product perfectly copes with old odors of sweat, urine, tobacco smoke, mustiness, spoiled food, etc. Smeloff can be used in public places (hospitals, toilets, etc.) and at home, using in basements, rooms, closets. Using the neutralizer at home is simple and convenient, and the result will last for a long time, unlike other means.

To remove musty or any other unpleasant odor from the fabric, just apply Smelloff to the entire surface and wait until the laundry is dry. At the same time, textiles will be cleaned of stains, acquire a pleasant aroma, as after a good wash.

The product has a convenient spray form, which allows you to quickly and easily treat any surface. Smeloff is an indispensable drug in every home, safe for the health of people and animals, and at the same time universal, helping to keep the house and things in perfect cleanliness.

how to remove, how to remove the smell of dampness and pets

In the article I will consider ways to remove unpleasant odors from the surface of the sofa cover. I will offer folk and professional remedies on how to remove the smell and “aroma” of pets, industrial smell and the smell of dampness, beer, and also give some tips on caring for new and old sofas at home.

The best ways to remove odors from the sofa at home

The smell of new furniture

Quality furniture should not have a strong chemical odor.

It is not uncommon to find out after buying upholstered furniture that it smells bad. This is usually due to tight packaging, which does not allow the industrial smell to disappear. The problem disappears on its own after a few days of using the product.

When you are confident in the safety of the composition of the upholstery and sofa filler, you can speed up the process of eliminating the industrial smell with the help of simple means.

Scented salt is sprinkled on a sheet and left overnight

Place sofa in a spacious, well-ventilated room and leave overnight without closing the windows. In the morning, the unpleasant odor will be significantly reduced.
Good for removing unpleasant odors Natural sorbents . Purchase from a hardware store or make your own small gauze bags. Pour aromatic herbs into them. Mint, lemon balm and thyme are perfect. Place them all over upholstered furniture. Leave for 10 – 12 hours.
In addition to herbal teas, use Flavored Sea Salt . Lay out the sofa if transformation is possible. Place the sheet so that it covers its entire area. Sprinkle salt on the sheet and leave overnight.
Helps eliminate bad odors natural ground coffee and vanilla blend . Sprinkle it on upholstered furniture and wait 5 to 6 hours, then remove the remnants of the mixture with a vacuum cleaner.
Dampen large terry towel in acetic solution . To prepare the solution, mix water and vinegar in a 2:1 ratio. Cover with a well-wrung towel. Wait 3-4 hours.
From professional products for removing unpleasant odors, ozonator is suitable. This is not the cheapest way, but the fastest.

If the upholstered furniture continues to smell even after 2 – 3 weeks have passed since the purchase of the furniture, then the product should be returned to the store due to its unsafe composition.

Bags of herbs help get rid of the unpleasant smell of new furniture

Dampness

High humidity, poorly ventilated rooms, spilled drinks often lead to the fact that the sofa begins to smell unpleasant and mold forms.

There are several folk and professional remedies to eliminate this smell of mustiness and antiquity:

Table salt will absorb excess moisture, as a result of which the unpleasant smell will disappear. Salt can be used with or without a sheet. In the latter case, you will have to vacuum the furniture after the procedure.
Baking soda is an all-purpose odor remover. This is a cheap and accessible method for everyone, since soda is available in everyone’s kitchen. Divide the salt into small bags, as suggested in the aromatic herb method. Wait 7-8 hours. If necessary, repeat the procedure several times.
green and black tea bags help with smelly upholstery. Place them all over the sofa area and leave overnight. But keep in mind that you will need more than one box of tea.
The hardware store stocks a range of chemicals for removing unpleasant odors from upholstered furniture.

The hardware store has a range of chemicals for removing unpleasant odors from upholstered furniture

Specialized solutions have a complex chemical composition that is unsafe for the skin of the hands. Arm yourself with household rubber gloves and a sponge before the procedure. Before using the product, read the instructions on the package and follow the directions exactly.

Animal secretions

Dogs and cats often “mark” the territory, after which the furniture “marked” does not smell the best. Urea has a sharp aroma, which quickly eats into the surface of upholstered furniture and does not disappear for a long time. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary measures as soon as possible after you detect the smell of an animal and wash the upholstery.

Dogs and cats often “mark” the territory, after which the furniture “marked” does not smell the best

In the struggle for a pleasantly smelling sofa, you will be helped by:

Hydrogen peroxide . Prepare a solution of water and peroxide. Mix them in a 1:1 ratio. Pour the resulting solution into a spray bottle. Spread the liquid over the surface of the upholstery. Wait a couple of hours. Repeat manipulations.
Lemon or citric acid . Make a mixture of lemon juice/citric acid and running water. Ratio 1:2. Soak a microfiber cloth in the resulting solution, wipe the furniture and let it dry.
Laundry soap . Grate a bar of laundry soap. Mix with warm water. Wipe the sofa with the resulting mixture using a sponge. Leave the product for 3-5 hours.
As in the case of the musty smell of dampness, you can resort to the use of specialized chemicals. But remember to take precautions.

Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most affordable odor removers

Care tips

- Try ventilate the room as often as possible . Ideally, morning and evening.
- Cover the sofa with the cover you like. This will prevent the furniture from spoiling quickly and relieve you of unnecessary worries with constant cleaning of the upholstery. The cover is easy to wash in the washing machine.
- Don’t forget to vacuum sofa . It is advisable to do this 1 – 2 times a week.
- During the general cleaning, it will not be superfluous to take the sofa to fresh air and air it for 2-3 days.

It is better to take furniture outside in sunny weather, as ultraviolet light kills harmful microorganisms.

The main thing in competent care of upholstered furniture is timely care of its condition. Regular simple procedures will allow her not to fail for a long time and delight the eyes of her owners.

How to remove musty smells from clothes

It often happens that freshly washed linen, dried and ironed, does not smell in the closet or chest of drawers, but exudes an unpleasant specific smell. When such a “flavor” appears, respectable housewives try in every possible way to remove it: they wash it again, add special conditioners when washing. But removing musty smells from clothes is not always easy. There are several ways to deal with such a scourge, the use of which will forever help clothes stay fresh and fragrant.

Where does an unpleasant smell come from on clothes? So why is there an unpleasant odor?

Insufficient drying of clothes. Bedding and washed items must be placed in the closet completely dry. Even a small amount of moisture in the fabric provokes the development of mold, which, in turn, leads to the appearance of a damp smell.
The item smells bad if placed in the closet immediately after ironing. Clothing should be allowed to cool down before being put back into place.
Clean items and linen are stored with unwashed items. As a result, fragrant and fresh clothes acquire the smell of dirty.
Laundry must not be locked up too long. Clothes should be aired regularly, otherwise it will be difficult to remove the unpleasant odor.
Sometimes all recommendations for washing, drying and storing things are followed, but the clothes still have a specific smell. Why is this happening? It is possible that the reason lies in the furniture where bedding and other wardrobe details are stored. That is why everything that is in the closet or chest of drawers smells bad.

Kitchen utensils in the fight against musty clothes

To get rid of the peculiar smell on clothes, it is not necessary to buy expensive fresheners and cleaners. Sometimes familiar products can help bring out the musty aroma.

The most ordinary vinegar helps to get rid of an unpleasant smell very well. To do this, pour the vinegar along with the powder (1 cup) and put the washing machine on normal mode. For greater efficiency, you can pre-soak musty laundry in warm water with vinegar. This method allows you to remove not only unnecessary aromas, but also all other unpleasant odors.

Baking soda is a similarly cheap and effective home remedy for getting rid of bad breath. We add 1 glass of soda during washing and at the output we get clean linen without extraneous odors.

Natural coffee beans can be used. We put a jar of grains on the bottom shelf of the cabinet. Coffee smells very nice and completely removes all unnecessary odors in clothes.

Grandmother’s recipes

Some methods that can perfectly remove the mustiness of clothes were known to our grandmothers. At the same time, in our time, such methods have not lost their relevance. And after applying folk remedies, clothes smell good.

Use of toilet soap. A regular bar of soap, both store-bought and handmade, can help get rid of unpleasant odors. We wrap the soap in a cloth and place it in the cabinet. After such a procedure, the linen smells pleasant, and there is no trace of moldy aromas. The only thing to remember: every 1-1.5 months the soap needs to be replaced.

Herbs in bags. Such a miracle remedy can be bought in stores, or you can make it yourself. To do this, in the summer we collect any fragrant plants (melissa, lavender, mint, etc.). Dry in the sun and place in linen bags. The resulting herbal secrets are laid out on the shelves of the cabinet. This method completely destroys all unpleasant odors. And, besides, the clothes after storage with bags smell amazingly pleasant.

Dried zest of lemons and other citrus fruits can serve as an analogue of herbal pouches. Linen after such natural fresheners smells great.

To prevent the appearance of mold in a wardrobe, and, accordingly, a musty aroma in linen and clothes, you can use an alcohol solution of iodine. Pour a few milliliters of iodine into a test tube or jar with a narrow neck and put it on one of the shelves in a closet or chest of drawers. To prevent the smell and iodine vapor from being absorbed into the tissue, we plug the neck of the test tube or jar with a small cotton pad or a ball of clean cotton wool. That’s it, mold and mustiness have no chance!

Some more useful tips

The following tips can help you get rid of mustiness on your clothes:

Dry clothes outdoors. The sun and fresh air, better than any other means, will defeat any unnecessary smell;
Ventilate cupboards occasionally. Every 3-4 months, do a general cleaning of cabinets, sort out linen and destroy all dirt.
In winter, clothes can be hung out in the cold. The aroma of freshness after such a procedure is incredible!

How to remove the smell from clothes: popular remedies and methods

On the streets we are surrounded by so many different scents that the clothes are soaked through and through, and periodically the question arises how to remove the smell from clothes. But there are many dangers at home too. For example, a characteristic flair may surround pet lovers.

The most obvious ways to remove odors from clothes are washing and dry cleaning. But it is expensive to give things to dry cleaning, and at home it is not always possible to remove the stubborn persistent smell from clothes.

Another possible option is to “kill” the smell that has ingrained in clothes with something even more pleasant and strong: eau de toilette, orange peels, etc. But you need to understand that this will not solve the problem itself. The owner of the clothes will feel only the last, stronger smell, while the whole “palette” will be available to others.

All methods of removal are reduced to one task: you just need to decompose the substance that has eaten into the fibers of the fabric – the source of the unpleasant odor. The most common irritating odors include:

mould, dampness, second-hand;
fish;
animals;
sweat;
gasoline and diesel fuel.

The approach to each variety of such substances should be different. Therefore, it will be very useful to know how to remove an unpleasant smell from clothes without spending money on dry cleaning.

Maintenance

Musty smell on clothes
Moldy and damp smell
Removing second hand smell
Removing “animal” odors
Removing the smell of fish
The smell of gasoline and diesel

Musty smell on clothes

A characteristic musty smell often appears after a long storage of clothes in the closet. The reasons may be different. It most often appears if the linen is not stretched or simply stored for a long time in a closet without ventilation. Perhaps the laundry was put in the closet immediately after ironing, without letting it cool, or put together with unwashed clothes. Regardless of the reason, housewives begin to look for a way to remove the smell from clothes, since ordinary machine washing can not cope with it.

Nevertheless, there are many ways to eliminate mustiness, and they are very affordable. To do this, you need the simplest tools that can be found in any apartment. For example, before washing, in addition to powder, add a glass of ordinary vinegar, without flavorings and dyes. If the clothes smell very musty, you can first soak them in water with the addition of vinegar. This will help eliminate not only mustiness from clothes, but also many other unpleasant odors.

Instead of vinegar, you can add a glass of soda to the water. This product also effectively fights any unpleasant odors and, in addition, effectively eliminates pollution.

If there is no way to arrange such a wash, you can do it in simpler ways. There is an interesting method on how to remove the smell from clothes: you just need to put a small glass jar with coffee beans in the closet. They have a persistent pleasant aroma that copes with mustiness.

The smell of mold and dampness

There is nothing worse than discovering that the clothes you plan to wear in the near future smell of dampness or mold. In this case, you need not only to decide how to remove the smell of mold from clothes, but also to take some preventive measures.

First of all, you need to understand why an unpleasant smell has appeared. To do this, first of all, you need to check the washing machine, since it is they who are often the source of mold. To get rid of the problem, it is worth pouring vinegar or sodium percarbonate solution into a special compartment. Start the machine in maximum temperature mode or, if available, in sanitary mode. After finishing work, wipe the inside with a dry cloth and leave to ventilate.

Attention! A common cause of dampness and mildew can be excess detergent. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions for use.

Before removing the smell of dampness from clothing, it is worth holding it in the sun so that it dries properly. The reverse method also works: hang it out to ventilate in the cold. If this does not help to completely eliminate the mold, then you can wash clothes with vinegar, ammonia, citric acid or saline. Ascorbic acid dissolved in a small amount of vodka is considered an effective folk remedy.

Removing the smell of second-hand

In fact, it is not so shameful to buy second-hand clothes as it is ashamed to wear them afterwards. And the reason is often hidden in the characteristic smell inherent in second-hand things. In order to better understand how to get secondhand smell out of clothes, you need to know where it comes from.

A characteristic pungent smell, oddly enough, can be considered a kind of second-hand quality mark

A characteristic pungent smell, oddly enough, can be considered a kind of second-hand quality mark. It arises as a result of the treatment of such things with potent substances: metal bromide, formaldehyde. These substances are used to sanitize clothes and things. With their help, all kinds of fungi, bacteria and insects that can cause various diseases are eliminated.

But the unpleasant moment is that although the smell of formaldehyde indicates the absence of pests, it means that there are a lot of chemicals in clothes that have not been sufficiently neutralized. It is better not to buy such clothes, since it is difficult to predict the reaction of the skin to it. But if the thing is already purchased, you will have to work hard to get rid of the smell.

There are many ways on the Internet to remove the smell from clothes bought in second-hand. But most of them are completely useless. The most effective method is described in the sanitary rules, the composition for removing odor in this way consists of two components:

Ammonia.
Fresh air.

The smell of formaldehyde, although it indicates the absence of pests, means that there are a lot of chemicals in the clothes that did not neutralize them sufficiently

The amount of ammonia is determined by the size of the item. For T-shirts, T-shirts, skirts and other things, it is enough to take 20 ml and dissolve in 5 liters of water. For larger things, you will have to pour out a whole bottle (100 ml), but for 10 liters of water.

Soak items from half an hour to three hours, depending on the size and density of the material. Things made of cotton and other light fabrics are enough to withstand 30 minutes, but leather jackets will have to be soaked for 4 hours. After that, the clothes need to be wrung out and hung out in the fresh air for 2 days. Then wash with conditioner.

Ammonia will help get rid of the smell

It is worth noting that this method is completely safe, as it does not lead to fading of the material. Therefore, it can be safely used to neutralize the unpleasant smell of second-hand.

Removing “animal” odors

Life is not the same without a cat, everyone knows that. But sometimes love for cute fluffy animals runs into serious obstacles. Cats are naturally very clean, but the problem is that the concept of cleanliness in them and in humans is often different. For example, cats do not like extraneous odors and immediately try to “override” the scent they don’t like with their own. Let’s look at the situation through the eyes of a person: the cat “didn’t like” the smell coming from shoes, new clothes or bed linen.

Do you recognize this situation? And here the main question is not how to wean a cat from such a habit: she does this not because of her bad character, but because of her instincts. The question is how to get the smell of cat urine out of clothes. It is known that the smell of a cat is extremely difficult to eliminate, and ordinary powders and detergents will not help here.

The reason for the persistence of cat aromas is in the composition of urine, namely in a special substance – uric acid and urea. Urea is the cause of stickiness. Uric acid crystallizes very quickly, so it does not dissolve in water and is not affected by detergents. Acid crystals get into the fibers of the fabric, so they are not so easy to get out of there. Washing powders give short-term results. While the clothes are clean, the fragrances interrupt the smell of cat urine, but gradually, as you wear it, it appears again.

For the reasons mentioned above, it is useless to use ordinary washing powders. But you can get by with improvised means. First of all, it is vinegar essence. It effectively removes odor from any surface, including clothes and shoes.

Odor removal and disinfection with hydrogen peroxide

Odor removal and disinfection with hydrogen peroxide. But it is more suitable for processing carpets and furniture. Handle clothes very carefully, trying not to spoil.

Removing the smell of fish

For all the health benefits of fish, it has a huge drawback: a characteristic smell. If the clothes smell of fish, then they are often considered damaged and discarded. But it is better to learn how to remove the smell of fish from clothes.

If the soiling is not very strong, you can try to simply wash the clothes in the washing machine with a regular powder. Alternatively, you can add citric acid to the water: it effectively neutralizes the fishy smell.

To be sure to remove the smell, you can soak the clothes in a solution of laundry soap before washing. For this purpose, dark is best suited, as it has a high alkali content. You can quickly dilute the soap solution: grate the soap, mix the water well. The solution should be as thick as possible. In order for the effect of washing to be greater, clothes can be boiled in soapy water.

Instead of soap, you can soak clothes in vinegar for 30-40 minutes. On a basin of water you will need 2 tbsp. l. vinegar.

Some housewives say that detergents do a good job with the smell of fish. Detergents with the smell of lemon are best suited for this purpose.

Tip! If time is running out and clothes are not needed at the moment, you can wrap them in a sheet of newspaper and leave them in the hallway for a day or two.

Paper absorbs odors well, so most of the odor will be absorbed by the time of washing, and it will be easier to deal with it. As an additional measure, a little bit of vinegar can be added to the water already during rinsing, as it can neutralize odors.

After washing, it is better to hang out the clothes in the fresh air and leave them to air for at least a day. If all these measures did not help to cope with the smell of fish, then the only way left is dry cleaning.

The smell of gasoline and diesel fuel

It is better not to wash clothes emitting aromas of diesel fuel and gasoline in an ordinary washing machine – it is not worth risking their condition. Residual fuel can get on plastic and metal parts and destroy them. In addition, the smell can transfer to other things.

When deciding how to remove the smell of gasoline from clothing, you should never try to neutralize stains and odors with bleach or chlorine stain removers. This may cause a chemical reaction, which may produce harmful fumes. In addition, the matter will not be limited to a single processing of the material, so first of all you need to prepare for a long work.

If clothing smells of gasoline, it must first be removed to fresh air. The gasoline will evaporate and the smell will disappear. But this process is not fast, it will take up to two weeks (depending on the degree of contamination).

You can also try soaking the affected clothing in a good quality detergent solution. Do not rush: before you start washing, it is better to wait about a day. You can dry things only in the fresh air. The maximum that is allowed is to hang it on a loggia or balcony, but not indoors.

Tip! A special product is available to eliminate the smell of gasoline. It is sold in the household department, usually in liquid form.

You can try soaking the affected clothing in a solution of a quality detergent

Most often, such products are universal, so they will work well for removing various odors, including the smell of gasoline.

Diesel fuel is distinguished by a persistent, pronounced “aroma”, which is very difficult to remove. There are several ways to remove the smell of diesel fuel from clothes:

Extractive gasoline or aviation kerosene. First you need to prepare a solution and put clothes in it for half an hour.

Musty Smell in the Basement? 4 Steps to Freshness

How to Get Rid of Musty Basement Smells

What Causes a Basement’s Musty Smell

Mold and Mildew

Good to Know

Other Basement Smell Contributors

Steps to Ridding Your Basement of Musty Smells

Make Your Basement as Dry as Possible

Clean or Replace Moldy, Mildewy, or Damp or Rotted Materials

Tip

Check and Repair Leaky Pipes

Hire a Pest Control Company

Clean Any Iron Ochre

How to Get Rid of That Musty Basement Smell

Look for leaks and condensation in the basement

Lower the humidity level with a dehumidifier

Clean up all mold or mildew spores

How to Get Rid of Musty Smell in Basement

Here’s How to Get Rid of that Mold Smell in the Basement

What Causes the Musty Basement Smell?

Mold and Mildew

Damp Basements

Pets

How to Get Rid Of The Musty Smell In Your Basement

Cleaning Up Mold and Mildew

Mold and Mildew Cleaning Solution

Use Kitty Litter or Baking Soda

Removing Excess Moisture From The Air

Preventing Mold Growth

Do Dehumidifiers Help With Mold?

How to Get Rid of Basement Odor (10 Easy Methods)

Causes of Basement Odor

How to Get Rid of Basement Odor

Call a Professional

Fix Leaks

Run a Dehumidifier

Clean Mold and Mildew Spores

Neutralize Smells

Remove Standing Water

Call a Plumber

Deep Clean

Clean the Dryer Vent

Fix Cracks

Do I Need to Run a Dehumidifier in the Basement in Winter?

Does DampRid Work in Basements?

What Can I Use to Absorb Moisture in My Basement?

Back to Basics

How Do I Get Rid Of Musty Smells In My Home Basement?

Why Do Basements Smell So Bad?

Our Effective Odor Control Squair Wafer Refills

How Do I Get Rid Of Musty Smells In My Home Basement?

What Are The Best Odor Control Products For Basements?

How to get rid of the musty smell in the basement

1.

Here are a few places to check for cracks or leaks that could be causing an odor:

2. Make repairs

3. Control the humidity

4. Deodorize

Types of work we do:

How to get rid of the smell of dampness in the apartment, tips for cleaning mold

How to remove musty smell from linen: proven and safe methods

A quick way to get rid of the musty smell of clothes

Eliminate musty odors with bleach

Vinegar and soda for musty smells from laundry

Smelloff odor remover

how to remove, how to remove the smell of dampness and pets

The best ways to remove odors from the sofa at home

The smell of new furniture

Dampness

Animal secretions

Care tips

How to remove musty smells from clothes

Where does an unpleasant smell come from on clothes? So why is there an unpleasant odor?

Kitchen utensils in the fight against musty clothes

Grandmother’s recipes

Some more useful tips

How to remove the smell from clothes: popular remedies and methods

Musty smell on clothes

The smell of mold and dampness

Removing the smell of second-hand