Will a Dehumidifier Help Remove a Basement Smell?

An unpleasant smell in your basement can render it unusable. While a dehumidifier cannot directly remove the smell, it can prevent the cause of the odor from returning once you have removed the source.

Basement Smell

Smells in basements often result from mold and mildew growing in damp areas. They release a musty, earthy odor that can be unpleasant. Getting rid of the mold and mildew will get rid of their odor. A dehumidifier can be part of your basement cleanup.

Removal

To get rid of mold in your basement, first dampen it down, and then scrape off as much as you can. After, scrub down the area with a solution of ¼-cup bleach in 1 gallon of water. If the smell lingers in your basement, sprinkle chlorinated lime on the floor. After the powder absorbs the moldy odor, sweep it up and dispose of it.

Prevention

A dehumidifier can help prevent mold and mildew and its odor from returning. Running the dehumidifier in your basement will pull moisture from the air, making it a less attractive place for mold and mildew to grow.

References

• North Dakota State University: Remove Mold for a Healthy Home
• University of Georgia: Mildew Prevention and Removal