How do I get rid of musty smells?

We live in a cape cod style house. Our upstairs always smells musty. How can we get rid of it?! Thanks!!

  7 answers
  • Lindsay Aratari Lindsay Aratari on Aug 11, 2019

    I diffuse essential oils!

  • We used to have this issue in an older home with a musty basement. We ran a dehumidifier and it took the odor away. You can also try these tips https://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/house/musty-basements-be-gone-in-3-simple-steps-7590417

  • Jeremy Hoffpauir Jeremy Hoffpauir on Aug 11, 2019

    You may have a humidity issue which can lead to mold problems. Mold has that type of smell sometimes.


    I recommend purchasing a humidity monitor, which I use often. Depending on the humidity, you may need to dehumidify that area. I live in a humid climate, so I often have this issue.


    Here is a great humidity monitor you can buy at a great price. https://amzn.to/31CUMi5


    I had to take more drastic measures in my attic with a DIY Mini Split. Hopefully, you don't need to do this...


    Hope this Helps! Jeremy - https://do-daddy.com

  • Lisa S. Lisa S. on Aug 12, 2019

    A dehumidifier helps. Check to make sure no leaks in pipes or roof anywhere. Also rugs that have been wet at one time, can have mildew in them - easiest to just get rid of them.

  • Chris Chris on Aug 12, 2019

    Hi Amanda, my fellow Hometalkers are correct. When i purchased my home it was musty in spite of cleaning. Then i noticed mold growth starting on my funiture pieces made with superboard. I realized this was caused by excess humidity. Opening windows didnt help, i had to get a heavy duty dehumidifier. Depending on the size of your home and the size you purchase, you may need more than one. I bought one and moved mine around. Cumbersome to move about yes, since i do not have a basement, but i prefer that to mold and musty smells.

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Oct 02, 2022

    You'll have to find the source of what is musty and either clean it or remove it.

  • Mogie Mogie on Oct 02, 2022

    Vinegar method

    Step 1

    Dilute 6 tbsp. of white vinegar in 6 cups of water in a sauce pan. Heat the pan to a soft boil, then remove the pan from the heat.

    Step 2

    Place your flatware in the heated vinegar solution. Allow to soak for 15 minutes.

    Step 3

    Remove the flatware and dry it with a soft cotton cloth.