16 Best DIY Solutions to Get Rid of Musty Smell in Basement!
Is the musty smell of your basement bothering you and finding ways how to get rid of that from your basement?
I’ve been there, and I remember how irritating to sense.
But don’t worry throwing off the musty smell from your basement is less difficult than your imagination.
The smell is often due to excess moisture, mold formation, or bad ventilation and could make your entire home feel uncomfortable.
After trying a few simple techniques myself, I’m satisfied that I could banish the smell for good!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple approaches to getting rid of that musty smell in your basement
What reasons for the musty smell in the basement?
Here are the main reasons that you can consider for the musty smell in the basement:
1. Excess Moisture: Moisture is the biggest culprit as it creates a path for mildew and mold to thrive resulting in musty smells.
2. Mold and Mildew Growth: Mold and mildew develop in moist areas. If you’ve noticed the musty smell chances are there that mildew is hidden in corners or on walls.
3. Poor Ventilation: Without proper airflow, your basement traps moisture, contributing to the musty smell.
4. Water Leaks: Leaks on your basement walls or bases allow water to seep in, increasing moisture and promoting mildew growth resulting in a musty smell.
5. Old Building Materials: Old, decaying wood or plastic within the basement can entice moisture and contribute to musty smells.
Suggested Read: Does Sunlight Kill Mold: How Well Is Sunlight Against Mold?
How To Find Musty Smell In Your Basement?
A musty smell in your basement can indicate mold or mildew growth which can be harmful to health.
Here’s a way to find the source of the odor and deal with it.
1. Inspect for Visible Mold or Mildew: Start by analyzing areas where moisture accumulates like walls, flooring, and ceiling, especially focusing on dark spots.
2. Check for Water Damage: Look for symptoms of water damage, which includes discolored or warped wood, peeling paint, or damp spots on partitions.
3. Test for Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to measure the moisture in your basement. If the humidity is above 60%, it can encourage the increase of mold and a musty smell.
4. Inspect Floor Drain: If your basement has a floor drain, test it for clogs or stagnant water, that can lead to mildew and mold growth and cause musty odor.
Suggested Read: Does Rubbing Alcohol Kill Mold? The Real Truth Revealed!
How To Get Rid Of Musty Smell In Basement: 16 Simple Solutions That Actually Work!
These simple 16 strategies will help you to get rid of smell in the basement.
1. Use Fresh Herbs
Hanging clean herbs like rosemary or mint in your basement may be a simple but powerful get rid of the musty smell in your basement.
These herbs naturally repel odors and freshen up the air in a secure, non-poisonous way.
Additionally, they add a natural scent to the space which you’ll love!
2. Clean with Tea Tree Oil
Mixing tea tree oil with water and use it to wash surfaces or spray around your basement.
Tea tree oil has strong antifungal properties that assist in putting off musty smells.
This herbal solution also helps keep the air in your basement fresh and clean.
3. Remove Old Furniture
Old, damp furnishings can absorb moisture and maintain unsightly odors.
If your basement is used as a storage area, it’s crucial to put off any furniture or items.
By putting off these you can easily remove musty smells from lingering and make sure your basement stays dry and smell-free.
4. White Vinegar Spray
Take equal amounts of water and vinegar mix it well and store it in a spring bottle.
You can spray directly near moldy regions to neutralize unsightly odors.
White vinegar is a very powerful solution used to get rid of the musty smell in the basement.
It not only kills mildew but is also non-poisonous for pets and children.
Suggested Read: Why Does Malt Vinegar Smell Bad? Unmasking The Hidden Cause!
5. Sump Pump to Get Rid Of A Musty Smell In The Basement
If flooding is a continuous problem in your basement, investing in a sump pump could make a big difference.
This device saves water from gathering, which is a primary reason for mold and musty odors.
6. Clean with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful mold killer and sanitizer.
Use it to clean affected areas in your basement to remove that musty scent.
It works wonders in getting rid of mold growth, but don’t forget to put on gloves and ventilate the space.
7. Use Silica Gel To Get Away musty smell in the basement
Silica gel is excellent at soaking up moisture and decreasing humidity in your basement.
Whether you use silica gel packs or loose gel in boxes, it’s an easy and powerful solution to prevent mildew.
This also helps in keeping away the pests with ease in your space!
8. Use Ozone Generators
Ozone generators are effective machines that can neutralize mildew and musty odors.
By freeing ozone molecules, they spoil the smell and leave the air smelling fresh.
However, ensure to apply these mills in properly ventilated areas and observe the producer’s instruction tips to keep away from overexposure.
9. Install a Crawl Space Ventilator
If you have a crawl space beneath your property, installing a ventilator will enhance airflow and decrease moisture buildup.
This easy addition can help you to get rid of the musty smell in your basement by making the air dry and well-circulated.
10 .Use Cedar Wood Blocks To Get Rid Of A Musty Smell In Basement
Cedar wood is a herbal moisture repellent and works wonders at preserving your basement smelling sparkling.
Placing cedar blocks or chips around the space, not only absorbs extra moisture but also adds a pleasant, woody aroma that beats any musty odor.
11. Install a Vapor Barrier
If your basement experiences high humidity, a vapor barrier can help to block moisture from entering the walls or ground.
This is an easy, but effective step that will prevent dampness, mold, and that dreaded musty smell from taking up your space.
12. Use Cat Litter to get musty smell out of basement
Believe it or not, cat clutter is a unique moisture absorber. Placing a few bowls of unscented cat clutter around your basement.
This can trap moisture and help to keep the air clean. It’s a cheap and quite effective technique to rid the musty smell from the basement.
13. Add Plants to deal with bad odors
Some plants, like peace lilies and English ivy, purify the air and assist in lessening musty smells.
They not only clean up your basement, but in addition, they improve the air, adding a touch of nature to your home and maintaining things fresh and clean.
Suggested Read: How To Get Rid Of Gnats In Plants: 15 Must-Try Hacks!
14. Install Floor Mats
Placing absorbent floor mats in areas that generally tend to collect moisture, such as entryways or laundry rooms, can assist prevent dirt and water from turning into odors.
By trapping moisture, those mats make it less complicated to maintain your basement dry and odor-free.
15. Use Zeolite Crystals To Get Rid Of Musty Smell In Basement
Zeolite crystals are the best option for soaking up moisture and odors.
The paintings in addition to silica gel are best for preventing humidity buildup in your basement.
Just place bags of zeolite around the gap, and allow them to absorb excess moisture and bad odors.
16. Install a Drywall
If you often address groundwater flooding, installing a drywall can assist direct water away from your basement.
This helps prevent moisture from getting into the gap and keeps your basement dry, reducing the chances of musty smells and mold boom.
Suggested Read: Why Does My Laundry Room Smell Like Sour Milk: 8 Top Causes!
Frequently Asked Questions: How To get rid of musty smell in basement
1. How long does it take to get rid of musty smells in the basement
It depends on the size of your basement however with the proper steps start noticing a difference for a few days. For high-quality results wait for a week. Stay patient and the odor will get disappear!
2. Can I prevent musty smells from coming back?
Yes! Regularly manage moisture with a dehumidifier, keep your basement clean, and connect the leaks. By maintaining a dry and properly ventilated space, you may stop musty smells from returning.
3. Is it safe to remove mold myself?
It’s possible, however, make sure to take precautions! Small areas can be wiped with proper equipment like gloves and a mask. If it’s more, it’s nice to seek the help of an expert.
