Musty smell?
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Aco27409642
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the dormer upstairs stinks like the place had been closed for yearsr what can I use to get rid of the smell.
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Hi!
I would first be concerned about the cause of the smell, which could be as serious as a roof leak which can lead to mildew growth in fabrics, paper, wood, clothes, etc. Almost anything can harbor mildew growth but it has to have moisture, hence the possible roof leak. Mildew usually is what causes the smell, and it has to have moisture and darkness to thrive.
It could also be caused by an air conditioner (installed through a wall or window) that isn't draining properly. Check the a/c filter, the wall and floor around the unit for moisture. Look for ceiling stains and grey or black areas on the ceiling and walls for a possible roof leak, or call a roofer that offers free estimates; if a roofer does state the roof has a leak, get three estimates.
If it's not a leaky roof or a/c unit, then I would try the mildewicide Damp-rid which can be placed in closets or anywhere out of reach by children and pets. This will help asborb the moisture and help in getting rid of the smell. Cleaning with a diluted bleach solution will also help with the smell and any mildew growth, even if you can't see it. Please make sure you ventilate the room while using bleach.
Best of luck from someone who has been there!
This is what I use for pet odors and musty smells in rooms! It works really good for small spaces...it will need more for larger spaces https://chemistrycachet.com/most-effective-way-to-eliminate-pet-odor/
Charcoal is a great odor eliminator, but you have to make sure you get the kind without the starting fluid already built in. I remember my grandparents placing charcoal on a plate in the room that was closed off.
Charcoal, as stated above, and newspapers are both good for odor elimination. You can purchase bags designed for that purpose that are renewable by placing in full sun.
DampRid advice is good as well. I have found the ones that are designed for the closets are better than the buckets. My mother-in-law's house has a weird smell and those have been amazing to eliminate the musty smell as well as pull moisture from the air.