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How do you get rid of a Musty Basement Smell?

Answer:
There are probably a thousand products available that

claim to help get rid of musty basement smells. Some of them very likely do help to minimize the smell all right, perhaps through some special absorbent materials; and some might effectively "cover up" the smell by presenting a bouquet of flowery, fruity or flirty chemicals to spritz the air with. But a musty basement smell is not gotten rid of with these things...it is merely covered up or at best slightly diminished.

Musty basement smells are actually caused by mildew, which is a form of mold or fungus that thrives in damp locations. Musty odors can be eliminated, but only if the mildew can be eliminated and measures are taken to prevent further moisture; otherwise, mold/mildew will continue to grow, and the cycle will continue. Since the mildew is "invited to grow" in moist conditions, elimination of the moist conditions is paramount to true elimination of the musty basement smell.

Most basement moisture is caused from ground water which seeps into the earth around and under the concrete foundation/basement, then ultimately into the basement space itself. Even though foundations are usually sealed against infiltration of liquid, water or moisture find their way through walls and floors from outside. Providing that water is not literally flowing into the basement area, following these steps should help get rid of the moisture that invites the mold and mildew that creates the musty smell!

The first step probably should be to purchase a good de-humidifier, set it up, and run it in the basement area to help dry out the space while you work on the other necessary steps.

Next, identify and clean any areas in which mold or mildew growth is evident. Remove any wet or damp carpeting, cardboard, wood or other moisture-absorbing substance that show signs of mold or mildew.

Mold or mildew can usually be cleaned and removed using standard chlorine bleach. Alternatively, white vinegar may help to remove mildew. Be sure to follow label safety guidelines and instructions and wear appropriate protective clothing, etc.

Elimination of the basement moisture sources is a must, in order to ensure lasting results. Follow these steps to minimize water or moisture infiltration:

Make every attempt to shed all ground water away from the house and foundation, by extending gutter downspouts out by six feet or more; and by ensuring the earth around the foundation slopes away from the foundation walls; and by eliminating any possibility for water to collect near the foundation or basement windows and doors.

Inside the basement, seal up any cracks in the walls and floor with quality hydraulic cement, following instructions provided with the product. Caulk and seal corners of walls and floor with a quality caulking material designed for use with concrete. Also, purchase a quality concrete waterproofing paint/sealant for inside the basement walls and floor (to be applied only after adequate preparation according to instructions accompanying the product).

As an added measure, it is a good idea to provide some amount of cross ventilation in basement areas, either through slightly open windows or by means of small fans and louvers to the outside.

Notes: Follow all manufacturers' guidelines for safe use and handling of all tools, equipment or products. Mold and mildew may cause allergic or sensitivity symptoms in some individuals; handle with appropriate caution.


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