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Mold
- This musty scent, reminiscent of old books or wet socks, signals the metabolic process of mold as it feeds on organic materials like wood, wallpaper, or carpet. While a mold smell in the house may not be pronounced at first, it is likely to become more pungent the more advanced the mold growth becomes.
www.bobvila.com/articles/signs-of-mold-in-house/
Aug 31, 2023 · A musty or damp smell can indicate that mold is growing somewhere out of sight. The overt appearance of mold, which is marked by green, black, or white patches on surfaces, is undeniable...
- Excess Moisture Around The House. One of the most common causes of musty smells in the house is excess moisture, which means there’s water in some areas where it shouldn’t be.
- Poor Air Circulation Inside The House. Inadequate airflow is another common reason a house smells musty, even without mold. When there is stagnant air inside your home, bacteria and other contaminants can get trapped indoors, which results in that old musty smell.
- Household Members Smoking Indoors. If you or another household member smokes indoors, even if it’s only occasionally, then you may have found the culprit behind that old, musty smell inside the house.
- Dirt & Spills that Haven’t Been Properly Cleaned. Dirt, spills, and messes are quite common, and even unavoidable, when you have little kids or pets in the household.
- Mold and mildew. The most common cause of a sudden musty smell in a house, especially in winter, is the development of mold and mildew, often caused by humid conditions and condensation.
- Dust and grime build up. If you cannot find any sources of mold in your home then the source may be a little less sinister. ‘ Musty smells are often caused in the home by a build-up of dirt and grime, which can cause a lingering, unpleasant smell,’ explains Amanda Lewis of Elbow Grease. ‘
- Improperly dried clothing and linens. Although drying clothes quickly is convenient, not leaving clothes and linens to dry for long enough can leave them smelling musty and cause a permanent odor in your home.
- Home humidity above 60% Trying to work out what humidity your house should be in winter can be difficult. Nevertheless, a humidity over 60% can trap odors and create a musty, damp lingering smell around your home.
If your house smells musty but there’s no visible mold, check anywhere there’s moisture. Use this guide to help you identify and prevent the smell in your home.
- Your Carpeting Needs Cleaned. There are many reasons why wall-to-wall carpet throughout the home has fallen out of favor—a major one being that carpet retains odors.
- The Ventilation Is Inadequate. According to Murphy, inadequate ventilation is another primary source of those musty aromas. “Limited fresh air can lead to stale, musty conditions,” she explains.
- There’s A Leak. Leaks can also cause musty odors, but the bigger problem is that they aren’t always visible. “Hidden leaks within walls or under floors can perpetuate ongoing mustiness,” Murphy explains.
- Mold Is Growing. While mold on surfaces can be obvious, such as when you see it growing on a wall or ceiling, that isn’t always the case, explains Momplaisir.
4 days ago · 1. Mold & Mildew Growth. (Image credit: Getty Images) In conversation with Emily Adams, cleaning expert at NW Maids, she tells us that mold and mildew tend to be the prime reason your home is developing a musty scent. "Mold and mildew thrive in damp, poorly ventilated areas, such as basements and bathrooms," she notes.
Nov 8, 2022 · A nasty stench has no place in your home, and we’ve got the tips to banish bad smells with everything from a white vinegar spritz to a special wood cleaner.
