How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Basement

Mold can thrive in damp, dark spaces.

Mildew and mold thrive in damp, dark basements, leaving black and white streaks on cement walls, carpet and wood. In addition to being unsightly and smelly, mold and mildew can cause health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control, common reactions to mold include runny nose, itchy eyes and headache. To permanently remove a mildew odor from the basement, you must eliminate the cause of the mold so it doesn't grow back.

Things You'll Need

• Fan
• Dehumidifier
• Moisture barrier fabric
• Chlorine bleach
• Scrub brush
• Chloride of lime

Instructions

1. Scrub mold and mildew with a solution of 1/2 cup chlorine bleach and 1 gallon warm water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, and dry.

2. Prevent dampness in the basement by running fans and dehumidifiers. Improve outside drainage by properly grading the soil around the foundation and installing rain gutters if necessary. Replace cracked or damaged mortar around the foundation and lay a moisture barrier fabric over the soil in the crawl space.

3. Treat mildew odor on tile, walls or other hard surfaces by applying the chlorine bleach mixture described in Step 1. Sprinkle chloride of lime (or bleaching powder) on cement floors. Leave the chemical on the floor until the odor dissipates, and sweep up.

Tips & Warnings

• Mold can't be removed from drywall. Cut out the affected drywall and replace before mold spreads.

• Keep all household chemicals out of the reach of children, and wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.

References

• University of Missouri Extension Office: How to Prevent and Remove Mildew
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Protect Yourself from Mold

Resources

• Brunswick: Practical Solutions