Tips

3 places in the house that emit bad odors – mold when it’s humid and how to fix them

In order to successfully eradicate mold, gaining an understanding of the origin of its unpleasant smell is vital.

2 August, 2023

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Unpleasant smells can often be found in houses, particularly in damp areas. Dampness not only creates foul odors but also poses health hazards. Here, we will discuss three common areas where dampness occurs and emits unpleasant smells.

1. Basement

The basement is a common area where dampness occurs and emits unpleasant smells. This dampness is usually the first sign of mold growth, creating an unpleasant odor in the entire house. Consequently, it is crucial to identify and eliminate dampness in the basement. Here are some tips to address basement dampness:

– For small areas, clean with soap and water. Alternatively, use baking soda or an anti-mold solution. Apply the solution directly to the basement floor and clean with a mop or cleaning brush.

– For larger areas that emit strong odors and have been significantly affected, it is recommended to seek professional remediation services.

To prevent basement dampness, it is essential to keep all rooms in the house dry, utilize a good ventilation system, and consider installing a dehumidifier to control moisture levels.

2. Carpet

Another area in the house that can develop a musty smell when damp is the carpet. To remove the smell from a damp carpet, you can try the following methods:

– Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, then use a vacuum cleaner to clean it. Baking soda helps eliminate odors and cleans the carpet. For stubborn smells, leave baking soda on the carpet overnight to absorb the smell before vacuuming.

– Another option is to use carpet cleaners or steam cleaners. For optimal results, consider hiring professional carpet cleaning services.

3. Wallpaper peels

Peeling paint on the ceiling (left) and after being cleaned (right).

Dampness can cause wallpaper peels on the walls of your house, resulting in unpleasant smells. If you notice damp wallpaper peels, here are a few practical ways to address the problem:

– Mix bleach and water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the peeling wall and wipe it clean. This will clean the surface and eliminate the unpleasant smell.

– Another option is to mix ammonia with water and apply the mixture to the affected area. Wait for a few minutes, then clean it with water. Ammonia can help clean and eliminate stubborn odors.