4 Smart Methods That’ll Help You Get Rid of That Mold Smell

There’s nothing quite like the smell of mold or mildew in a home, which not only makes you wrinkle your nose in disgust but can also lead to respiratory issues that can cause everything from mild illnesses to severe allergic reactions. 

Fortunately, getting rid of that offensive odor is a lot easier than getting at the mold growth that caused it. Find out how to get rid of mold smell using these simple fixes from experts — allowing you to breathe a bit easier when you’re at home. 

The smell of mold is due to the emission of microbial volatile organic compounds, or MVOCs, according to Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage. “It is a gaseous by-product that comes as a result of mold growth and its metabolism.”

Once the mold spores have spread throughout your home and find a damp surface to land on, they break down the organic matter behind it, such as wood, drywall, or fabrics, Anderson says. It’s this very process that not only causes the bulk of the damage to the structure of your home but also the telltale musty or earthy odor.

While Anderson says that odor mostly comes from the chemical geosmin, other chemicals — including alcohol, aldehydes, and ketones — also contribute to the specific type of smell. “These are usually emitted in situations of saturation, poor ventilation, or water damage, where mold growth is thriving,” Anderson adds.

Once you’ve identified the odor as the by-product of mold growth, the next step is to get rid of it. First, Jack White, senior director of technical services at Rainbow Restoration, a Neighborly company, says you’ll need to address the issue through proper remediation, which includes containing, cleaning, and removing affected materials. 

“When dealing with mold smells, ensure proper containment, wear protective gear like masks, gloves, and protective suits, and if the smell is strong, avoid spending time in the area until it’s addressed, as it may indicate a significant mold issue,” White cautions. 

When you’re ready, you can attempt some of these methods to tackle the smell of mold. 

Anderson says you can use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels and ensure proper ventilation.

There are a few different DIY mixes you can try as well. “Place a bowl of white vinegar or baking soda around the house to neutralize the smell,” she says. “Also, if your clothes are affected, use vinegar or baking soda pretreatment before washing to get rid of the smell and any lingering spores.”

Another option is creating a mix of water, citrus oil, and a small amount of alcohol to wipe down surfaces, which Anderson says can quickly deodorize your home. (Make sure alcohol is safe to use on the surface first.)

“Another rather unconventional way is to place an open container of cat litter in the area of smell as it can absorb the smell,” Anderson continues, adding that you’ll need to change the litter frequently for it to be effective. 

Increasing natural light in mold-prone areas can kill some bacteria and germs, according to Anderson, which can help to get rid of mold smells. “If possible, this is one of the best ways to get rid of mold smells.”

Unfortunately, if the smell hasn’t improved after following the above steps, it may be a sign of an underlying problem somewhere else in your home. 

“The musty smell arises as mold produces microbial volatile organic compounds. It is a definite sign of an active mold in a home,” Anderson says. “Even when there may not be any visible mold, a smell usually indicates mold is growing in a hidden area such as behind walls, under flooring, or inside HVAC systems.”

According to Anderson, active mold thrives well in damp wet zones and humid environments. “Each time someone is exposed to it, health issues arise, such as respiratory conditions, allergic reactions, or skin irritation.”

If you’ve tried everything else and nothing has worked, Anderson says it may be time to call in the pros to address the underlying issue and help you get rid of the mold that continues to cause those odors in and around your home.