How to Get Rid of a Damp Smell in a Basement

Many houses have a damp basement smell to them. Many of these basements are free of any obvious water problems and home owners are left wondering where the smell came from and more importantly how to get rid of it. Damp smells in basements are often the result of water under the foundation of the house. This damp odor also tends to be a problem for those who live very close to the beach or other bodies of water.

Instructions

1. 

   Make sure all roof gutters are clean and not clogged. Make the down spouts from the gutters longer to direct water further away from the house.

2. 

   Check for water leaks from hot water heaters, baseboard or radiator heat, washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, or any pipes.

3. 

   Make sure your home and basement have plenty of ventilation. Open windows on dry days. Place window fans blowing out in the window(s), this will help draw out the unpleasant odor.

4. 

   Invest in a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will take excess humidity out of the air which in return will reduce the damp smell.

5. 

   To help reduce the odor of dampness get a few old coffee cans, fill them will charcoal briquettes (the type used for barbeques). The charcoal absorbs both odors and dampness. Replace every month.

6. 

   Get rid of old papers, cardboard boxes and carpeting. These items tend to retain the damp smell. Wash fabrics that have been stored.

7. 

   Baking soda will absorb damp odors. Fill a container or open the lid of the box and leave out.

8. 

   Clean cat litter also absorbs damp odors and absorbs humidity. Leave a bowl or tray of cat litter out. Cat litter should be replaced every 2 to 4 weeks.

9. Use an inonizer. An Ionizer is also an effective way of getting rid of a damp smell. An Ionizer releases ions into the air which destroy the odor causing atoms.

10. Buy an odor absorber. There are also many commercial products available such as Damp Rid at local hardware and home improvement stores.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are or live with someone with a respiratory disease or allergies, seek the help of a professional to locate the source of the damp smell.