How can I get rid of a musty smell in a finished basement?

Question

I would like to know how to get rid of a musty smell in basement. My elderly father lives in the house and does not use the space because of the smell.

Shoshana · Answer

You can make an odor absorber to spread around the basement. https://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/make-your-own-odor-absorber-air-freshener-5598095

Greene34 · Answer

I had the same problem but found that keeping a fan on all the time has remedied the musty smell issue. I deodorized the carpets then put a small window fan on a shelf. You can also use a floor fan or 'tornado fan', anything to keep the air circulating which is important. In addition, I use a dehumidifier during the summer. I've used every odor control product with little success but the keeping a fan on is what worked for me. Good luck.

Coach77cfc · Answer

bicarbonate soda works put in cups or jars open top it absorbs the smell worked for me in my car when someone was sick

Janet Pizaro · Answer

Use a dehumidifier and place buckets of damp rid

Red28080156 · Answer

Thank you so much! I was hoping I didn’t have to rip out the carpet. I’ll give these ideas a try first.

Janet Pizaro · Answer

either store sells that

Debbie · Answer

Since baking soda absorbs dampness and odors, I sprinkle it all over the carpet and let stand a while (doesn't matter how long) while doing something else. Then come back and vacuum the baking soda up. Now, to make it even better I add some essential oils to the baking soda and it also leaves a nice smell. I like citrus ones myself like a blend of lemon, orange, lime, or even grapefruit. My favorite is just lemon grass alone. It smells like you just polished the furniture. LOL If you don't want to add it to the baking soda then just use the soda alone and add a couple drops of the essential oil to a cotton ball in your vacuum cleaner. It will exhaust the nice smell in the room as you vacuum.

Elaine · Answer

I assume you live in the USA, however, if you live in Canada, Lee Valley sell a great product intended for just this purpose. I can’t remember what it is called but it’s a mesh bag (holding some type of small rocks) that one hangs in the basement or closet or wherever the odor is. Occasionally, the bag is rinsed then placed outside in the sunshine to “regenerate” it. Perhaps, Lee Valley ship to the USA, if so, I highly recommend it. I had one then passed it on to a relative when I moved into a condo. Go online, type in: LeeValley.ca and see what pops up. Their store is simply amazing, having so many items for life’s small problems such as this. Good luck!

How can I get rid of a musty smell in a finished basement?

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How can I get rid of a musty smell in a finished basement?

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