How to Locate a Mildew Odor

Mildew and mold emit a distinctive musty odor, which can be a sign of a mildew infestation in your home. Because some mold spores can adversely affect air quality and exacerbate allergies and asthma, it is important to remove mold and mildew as soon as they are detected. Mildew often grows in moist, confined and dark spaces, making it somewhat difficult to locate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flashlight
• Mirror
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Sponge

1. Check along the tops and bottoms of walls. Mildew often grows in areas with little air flow and can accumulate behind furniture. Pull beds, shelves, desks and other large objects away from the wall and check for mold or mildew growth.

2. Look beneath loose rugs and floorboards. Leaky pipes and flooding can lead to mold and mildew growth beneath the floor.

3. Remove air vents and check inside ducts. Unscrew vent covers and use a flashlight and a mirror to check the insides of the vents. Mold can also grow in the exhaust vent in bathroom fans.

4. Search crawl spaces and attics. Because these areas are more exposed to the elements, they can become infested with mold.

5. Clean out closets. Remove all items and check for mold or mildew growth.

6. Examine the undersides of shelves. If dishes are placed in cabinets while still wet, the shelves may become moldy.

7. Survey the areas surrounding appliances. Freezers, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and other appliances that use water or create condensation may promote mildew and mold growth.

8. Peel back old wallpaper. Loose wallpaper often hides mold. Look for signs of water damage and discoloration on the walls.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean up mildew and mold by spraying with white distilled vinegar. Next, sprinkle a wet sponge with baking soda and scrub the mildew.

References

• InspectAPedia

Resources

• The Cleaning Frenzy Mold Removal Task Force