The bathroom is prone to dampness, which can lead to an unpleasant musty odor. Typically, we would need to clean the bathroom regularly to remove bacteria and built-up grime, as well as to deodorize. In addition, you can implement some measures such as using essential oils or scented candles to keep the area fragrant and clean.
Why Do Bathrooms Develop a Musty Odor?
There are several reasons why bathrooms may develop a musty smell. The primary cause is the buildup of grime and bacteria around the toilet and drain. Additionally, if the bathroom is small and lacks proper ventilation, the chances of a musty odor increase. Regular cleaning and improving air circulation by opening windows or using exhaust fans are necessary to reduce dampness and eliminate odors.
Tips to Deodorize the Bathroom Using Natural Ingredients
Instead of relying on expensive, chemical-based products available in the market, you can utilize natural ingredients to effectively eliminate bathroom odors.
- Use Fresh Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a popular cooking ingredient, but it also has other practical applications. Placing a bunch of lemongrass in the bathroom will help eliminate odors, repel mosquitoes, and keep other small insects at bay. Simply buy a bunch of lemongrass, crush the stalks with a pestle or a rolling pin to release the essential oils, and hang it in a corner of the bathroom. The lemony fragrance will permeate the air, creating a fresh and pleasant atmosphere while keeping insects away.
- Use Pandan Leaves
Pandan leaves, also known as screwpine leaves, are excellent natural deodorizers. To eliminate bathroom odors, simply purchase a bunch of pandan leaves and hang them in a corner of the room. The mild, sweet fragrance of pandan leaves creates a soothing ambiance and effectively removes unpleasant smells. You can use pandan leaves in any corner of your home that needs odor control.

- Use White Vinegar
Mix white vinegar with water in a spray bottle and spritz it onto the toilet bowl, floor, and corners of the bathroom. Vinegar is a powerful disinfectant and deodorizer. Afterward, you can scrub the bathroom as usual. Alternatively, pour vinegar directly into the toilet bowl and let it sit overnight. In the morning, scrub the toilet and flush to remove stains and odors.
- Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent deodorizer. Simply sprinkle it onto the toilet bowl and floor, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, and then scrub and rinse as usual. Baking soda will help remove stains and eliminate bathroom odors. Alternatively, pour baking soda into the toilet bowl and drain, followed by vinegar. The reaction between baking soda and vinegar will create a fizzing action that softens stains and kills bacteria. Leave it for about 30 minutes, and then flush the toilet and drain with hot water to wash away the softened grime and neutralize odors.
- Use Fresh Lemons
Lemons have disinfectant properties and are effective in eliminating odors. Cut 1-2 fresh lemons, squeeze the juice directly into the toilet bowl, and let it sit for a few hours to allow the acidic lemon juice to break down stains. Then, scrub and flush as usual. For enhanced cleaning and deodorizing, combine lemon juice with baking soda.
- Use Essential Oils
Add about 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (such as peppermint, lavender, or lemongrass) to a bowl of water and place it in a corner of the bathroom, or soak a cotton ball in the scented water and leave it in the room. The fragrance of the essential oil will permeate the air, eliminating odors. Alternatively, mix the essential oil with water and transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. Spritz the solution onto curtains and towels to keep them fresh and odor-free.
- Use Coffee Grounds or Activated Charcoal
After enjoying your morning coffee, don’t discard the used coffee grounds. Instead, spread them out to dry and then place them in a small bowl or jar in the bathroom to absorb odors. Similarly, activated charcoal is highly effective at eliminating odors. Place a small amount of activated charcoal in a breathable fabric bag and hang it in the bathroom. For both methods, replace the deodorizer every one to two weeks to maintain optimal freshness.
These natural methods provide safe and effective solutions to eliminate bathroom odors. Incorporate these tips into your cleaning routine to maintain a fresh and pleasant bathroom environment.