Steps to Eliminate the Old Musty Smell at Home

Steps to Eliminate the Old Musty Smell at Home. Have you noticed why some houses have a specific musty smell to them? It does not matter how old the home is.

A musty smell in your home can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high humidity, water damage, or lack of ventilation. Here are some steps to help you eliminate the old musty smell at home.

1. Identify the source: The first step in eliminating a musty smell is to identify the source. Check for water damage, leaks, or areas with high humidity.
2. Improve ventilation: Increase airflow by opening windows and doors, using fans, or running your HVAC system. This can help reduce humidity levels and improve air circulation.
3. Use a dehumidifier: If high humidity is the cause of the musty smell, use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the air.

A five-year-old or a 70-year-old place can get the same “old house smell” if they share the same problems. If you start to notice the same issue in your house, too, you need to act on it soon to stop it from worsening. Luckily, you can take small steps to improve the condition of your home.

Here are the simple steps you can do to reduce that unwanted smell:

1. Identify Its Origin

You can only successfully get rid of the smell if you know where it comes from or what particular issue causes the problem. Usually, the old house smell starts from ventilation issues.

When there is no proper ventilation in the house, the air cannot pass through, and moisture builds up. Additionally, older homes tend to be darker than modern homes today. That makes the place a good place for moulds.

If this is the same problem as your house, fixing the ventilation and lighting could help improve the air quality inside your home.

2. Let the Sunshine and Air In

A natural way to solve the house smell is by simply opening the windows and curtains in your home. The ultraviolet light and heat from the sun can dry up the moisture.

At the same time, you can get rid of the dry air by letting fresh air circulate. Doing that would also remove the musty smell that has been hiding in your home for so long. If there are areas without windows or any opening, consider placing fans that would stimulate air circulation.

3. Dehumidify Your Home

If you live in a damp house with high humidity, consider investing in a humidifier to manage its mould problems. Besides allowing the fresh air to come inside the house, a humidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air. It is a low-energy appliance that can also ensure the cleanliness of the air you breathe.

4. Clean Your HVAC System

Another favourite hangout spot of moulds is your dirty vents and ducts. Since cold air also comes through these passages, it encourages the development of moulds.

Furthermore, your AC unit is responsible for spreading the air throughout the house. Regularly cleaning these areas can reduce the chances of mould development. Plus, it would help keep the air you breathe fresh and clean.

5. What kills musty smell in house?

There are several things that can effectively kill musty smells in a house, including:

Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that can help eliminate musty smells. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, and use it to clean surfaces that may be contributing to the smell.

Baking soda: Baking soda is another natural deodorizer that can help absorb musty smells. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, upholstery, and other porous surfaces, leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it up.

6. What neutralizes musty smell?

There are several things that can neutralize musty smells and help improve indoor air quality:

White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural deodorizer and can help neutralize musty smells. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and use it to clean surfaces or spray it into the air.

Baking soda: Baking soda is an excellent odor absorber and can help neutralize musty smells. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, upholstery, and other porous surfaces, leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it up.

Conclusion

Every house has its distinct smell. The odour should come from the different scents found inside your home, such as your cooking, cleaning supplies, detergents, room fresheners, curtains, carpets, and so on.

They are supposed to mesh and create a unique home smell called the occupant odour. But the old house smell is a different concern. It could mean there is a problem with your house construction and it is not good for everyone’s health. As soon as you notice this awkward smell, try to resolve it as promptly as possible.

To get the best duct cleaning in Toronto, book our service at Can Do Duct Cleaning. Our goal is to make every Canadian household a healthier and purer place to live in, including eliminating the smell inside your house. We specialize in professional duct cleaning services in the greater Toronto area. We provide free on-site inspection and estimates.