Damp, mould and mildew are the most common causes of a musty or stale smell in houses, creating this smell by emitting gases known as microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) as they grow.
A weird smell in a house can come from numerous sources, including appliances, furniture, carpets, fabrics or issues like mold or mildew. Occasionally, odors may be caused by sewer gas, natural gas leaks or animals that have died between walls, in attics or under decks.
The most common cause of a sudden musty smell in a house, especially in winter, is the development of mold and mildew, often caused by humid conditions and condensation. A musty smell, accompanied by dark discoloration on walls, furnishings, ceilings, or carpets can be the first sign of spores.
Locate the Source of the Musty Smell
Check for mildew growth in the shower, on the shower curtain, and leaks around sinks, tubs, and toilets. In the kitchen, look for leaks around the sink and dishwasher. Check under and in the refrigerator and small appliances that use water, like coffee makers and tea kettles.
A moldy or musty smell is frequently associated with the growth of mold or mildew. These smells are due to microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) being released into the air. The mVOCs are produced by mold and as it grows, they can produce strong smells alerting you of mold or mildew growth.
Stale air occurs indoors where there isn't proper ventilation or circulation – air inside a room or area becomes old and as it sits, it begins to smell musty.
Neutralize the Air
If you are on a budget, musty smells can be absorbed by setting out an open container or baking soda, white vinegar, even cat litter. Heck, even dryer sheets placed in built-in cabinets and closets can help.
If your home has a stale, musty scent, there could be a handful of explanations, including a plumbing leak, high humidity, poor airflow, dirty HVAC equipment, or soiled carpet.
Clear the air by making sure that your room is properly ventilated. If necessary, use an air purifier with a HEPA-type filter to help trap musty odors. If the weather cooperates, open your windows to let as much fresh air in as possible. Ideally, leave the windows open for at least 30 minutes.
If it's safe to do so, open doors and windows as much as you can to bring in fresh, outdoor air. While it's better to open them widely, even having a window cracked open slightly can help. If you can, open multiple doors and windows to allow more fresh air to move inside.
What are some of the symptoms breathing poorly circulated air cause? The official medical term [for the problem] is called building-related illness. It can cause headaches, fatigue, dry skin and irritation of the respiratory and nasal tract, resulting in coughing and nasal and sinus congestion.
Air purifiers can refresh stale air, reducing the chances of health issues caused by indoor pollutants, which can trigger respiratory infections, neurological problems, or aggravate symptoms in asthma sufferers. Quality air purifiers eliminate several types of indoor air pollutants, keeping us healthy.
Use an air purifier
Air purifiers are great tools for times when you can't open a window as often, like during hot or cold months. They help to remove contaminants from the air and improve overall air quality.
You might notice a musty smell, but not be able to see any mold growing. In this case, you should look for areas that might be exposed to water. Mold needs moisture to grow. If you're smelling mold in a usually dry area, you might have water damage or a leaking pipe.
The short answer to this question is yes, mold does have a distinct odor. The best way to describe the scent is “musty” or “earthy.” Some individuals even compare it to the smell of sweaty socks.
The primary difference between moldy and musty odors is in the strength of the smell; musty odors are usually not as strong as moldy odors.
Occupants of homes with poor indoor air quality may complain of symptoms such as headache, eye irritation, fatigue, dry throat, sinus congestion, dizziness, and nausea. Because many illnesses can cause these symptoms, diagnosing sick building syndrome is difficult.
Prevailing wisdom is that at least 5 minutes—and ideally 15 to 20 minutes—a day of ventilation significantly improves indoor air quality. For a strong ventilation, open the front and back door, along with windows on the path in between, to get the baddies out.
It's recommended that you do so once a day, for at least five minutes. Fifteen to 20 minutes is preferable. However, when you open them is also important. Keep them open at night or in the early morning, when the weather is cooler.
Not only will your physical health benefit from open windows, but your mental health could also get a boost as well. Various studies indicate air quality has a profound effect on cognition. For example, a University of Tulsa research project found proper ventilation is important for learning.
The wind will naturally ventilate your home by entering or leaving open windows, depending on their orientation to the wind. When wind blows against your home, air is forced into your windows on the side facing into the wind, while a natural vacuum effect tends to draw air out of windows on the leeward (downwind) side.
There's a musty smell in your home
When you walk into your home, you want it to smell clean and fresh. Moisture in the air tends to hold and trap odor, Bautista says. A dehumidifier will dry out the air and take away this moldy scent.