How to Clean a Dusty, Musty Basement

Inspect the basement for any leaks or needed repairs while you clean.

When cleaning a dusty and musty basement, protect yourself by wearing an N-95 respirator, which is a protective mask you can usually get at the hardware store. If the basement smells musty, this is an indication of mold or mildew, common in basements. It is not healthy to breathe the mold and mildew spores, nor is it healthy to breathe the dust you will be kicking up when you begin the cleaning project.

Things You'll Need

• N-95 respirator
• Gloves
• Goggles
• Hat
• Trash bags
• Broom
• Fans
• Dehumidifier

Instructions

1. Put on the N-95 respirator, work gloves and protective goggles without ventilation holes. You don’t want the dust or mold spores getting in your eyes. Wear a hat, such as a ball cap or painter’s cap. This will keep the spider webs out of your hair.

2. Bring bright light into the basement. You may hang some work lights strategically around the room. You want to see what you are cleaning. Depending on where you live, there might be poisonous spiders in the basement, such as the black widow or brown recluse.

3. Remove all debris from the basement. Fill large trash bags with items before carrying the trash out.

4. Set aside usable items you don't want to keep but don't want to trash.These are items you might donate to a local thrift shop, or sell at a yard sell. Organize them in an area other than the basement.

5. Move all items off the floor, so you can sweep.

6. Sweep off all the cobwebs and sweep up the floor.

7. Dry the room if it is damp by running a dehumidifier and airing out the room. Strategically place floor fans to bring in ventilation.

References

• EPA: What to Wear
• Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home; Christopher Gavigan, Meryl Streep; 2008