Odors in the Basement

Basements can have a number of odors.

You might notice strange odors coming from your basement. These odors could have several sources. To remove the smells, you will need to remove the source of the odor. You can then proceed to absorb and neutralize the odors with natural cleaning products.

Odor Causes

Basement odors might have a number of sources. Musty odors are often caused by excessive mold growth. Dusty odors are sometimes caused by dust settling on the surface of furnaces or radiators. Sewer odors come from leaking sewer pipes or clogged sewer traps. Dank odors come from plumbing leaks.

Finding Odors

Knowing where to look for the source of odors in your basement will help you locate them and eliminate them. Look in your pipes for leaks that might be causing dank or sewer odors. Smell drains and toilet tanks to determine which sink has a clogged trap that might be causing a sewer smell. Look in damp places of your basement for possible mold growth. Mold growth ranges in color from black to yellow to brown.

Odor Prevention

Prevent odors from developing in your basement by keeping an eye on plumbing. Check for leaks often, and fix them as soon as possible. Check crawlspaces, corners and laundry rooms for mold. Remove mold growth as soon as you can. Dry damp spaces with fans, and install a dehumidifier if the odors continue.

Cleaning Odors

Remove odors in your basement with natural products. Spray hard surfaces with white vinegar. Let the vinegar dry on the surface to neutralize odors. Sprinkle baking soda over upholstery and carpets that smell. Let them sit for several hours before vacuuming the products up. Set bowls of white vinegar around the basement to neutralize odors in the air.

References

• Family Handyman: How to Eliminate Basement Odor and Sewer Smells
• Mrs. Clean: Remove Odors From Your Home
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Molds in the Environment