How to get rid of the smell of mustiness and dampness in the basement: a home method

In addition to all the problems that a flooded basement can cause, including damage to walls and foundations, there is another less pressing issue. Excessive moisture causes mold and mildew, which leave a damp, musty, unpleasant odor.

You can buy a dehumidifier, although not everyone can afford such an expensive investment. Chemical cleaners promise to eliminate unpleasant odors, but as soon as the flavors wear off, the mold smell returns. Experts tell us how to get rid of the smell of mustiness and dampness in the basement.

An effective life hack

If you've already tried the usual ways to deodorize your musty basement, you can try something you already have on hand: rock salt.

Rock salt, also known as halite, is a little different from the salt you keep next to your pepper. Rock salt is mined and stored in large mineral chunks that are different from the small crystals of table salt. This salt can absorb moisture from the air perfectly, which in turn will rid the basement of the smell of mold.

How to use rock salt

To use rock salt as a moisture absorber, you will need two planter pots – one with drainage holes and one without, or two buckets – one with drilled holes and one without.

Place one pot or bucket with holes on top of the other, and fill the top bucket with rock salt. This will allow the salt to draw moisture from the air, and the bucket below can collect the excess and prevent the salt itself from getting wet. Be sure to drain the bucket as needed.

Deprived of moisture, the mold spores that cause the odor do not die, but stop growing and go into a state of dormancy. This can help eliminate unpleasant odors, but keep in mind that mold and mildew spores will be activated again if moisture comes into contact.

Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest developments.