How can I clean smelly basements?

What kinds of smells are you having in the basement? If it is moldy, then put a fan on and open windows to dry it out. Add a dehumidifier.

Mold in basements can be big trouble, therefore, you need to identify if it’s just lack of air movement? Yes, use a dehumidifier! Put a long hose on it and attach it directly to a floor drain so you don’t have to worry about emptying the bucket.

Or if it’s water seeping in to your walls and your floors causing systemic mold in the basement which will be going throughout your whole house sooner or later.

That’s horrible, I’ve been there done that. It put me in the hospital and cost me $7000 to get my health back from mold poisoning, so don’t mess around with that.

How old is your flooring? What is underneath the flooring? For example if you have wall-to-wall carpet in the basement and you have a pad underneath, then that’s a great place for Mold to grow.

Are there pet stains down there? Maybe from a previous owner?

Rid It is an odor absorber. Try that first.

Here is an idea to rid your basement of mold or mildew that may be causing the smell http://fitnesfiest.blogspot.com/2018/06/how-to-get-rid-of-mold-and-keep-it-from.html?m=1

If the musty smell seems to be emanating from a small area like a closet or cupboard, grab some baking soda! Place a small dish of baking soda in the enclosed area for up to 24 hours. The baking soda will absorb excess moisture and odors, and leave things smelling much fresher.