Why Mould Smells Musty & How to Permanently Get Rid of It
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Time to read 6 min
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Time to read 6 min
If you've ever walked into a damp basement, musty bathroom, or a room that hasn’t been aired out in a while , you’ve likely noticed the unmistakable stale, musty smell of mould . This unpleasant odour is more than just a nuisance—it’s a sign of active mould growth and poor indoor air quality .
Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces , releasing airborne spores and microbial compounds that create that lingering musty smell . Ignoring it won’t make it go away—in fact, prolonged exposure can lead to health problems, allergies, and respiratory irritation .
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✔️ Why mould smells musty and what causes the odour
✔️ The health risks of exposure to mouldy air
✔️ How to permanently eliminate mould and its smell
Table of Content
The musty smell of mould is caused by MVOCs (Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) — gaseous chemicals released by active mould colonies . When mould grows on surfaces, it breaks down organic material, releasing odour-causing compounds into the air .
✔️ High humidity & moisture buildup – Mould needs moisture to grow and release MVOCs.
✔️ Poor ventilation – Trapped air allows musty smells to linger.
✔️ Hidden mould growth – Mould may be inside walls, carpets, or HVAC systems .
✔️ Damp furniture & fabrics – Upholstery and curtains can absorb mould spores and odours.
Even after cleaning visible mould , the odour can linger if spores are still present in the air or if the source of moisture hasn’t been addressed .
Yes. The presence of a musty odour indicates active mould growth , which can negatively impact health, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems .
⚠️ Respiratory issues – Mould spores can irritate airways , triggering wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
⚠️ Allergy symptoms – Sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and skin irritation are common.
⚠️ Sinus infections & headaches – Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic sinus issues and fatigue .
⚠️ Weakened immune function – Mycotoxins from mould can suppress immune response, increasing susceptibility to infections.
If you notice a persistent musty odour , it's a sign that mould is present and needs to be addressed immediately .
To get rid of mould odours permanently, you need to eliminate the mould at its source and remove lingering airborne spores . Follow these steps:
✔️ Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors – Look for visible mould growth in damp areas.
✔️ Check HVAC systems – Mould can spread through air conditioning and ventilation systems .
✔️ Don’t forget hidden spots – Mould often grows behind furniture, under carpets, or inside walls .
How to Clean Mould Properly:
✅ Use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide – These kill mould at its root (unlike bleach, which only removes surface stains).
✅ Scrub affected areas thoroughly – Use a stiff brush for porous surfaces.
✅ Dispose of contaminated materials – Severely mouldy carpets, drywall, or insulation should be replaced .
Even after cleaning mould from surfaces , spores can remain suspended in the air , causing recurring odours and health issues . A high-quality air purifier is the best way to eliminate airborne spores and MVOCs .
✅ True HEPA Filter – Captures 99.97% of mould spores , preventing them from spreading.
✅ Activated Carbon Filter – Absorbs musty odours and MVOCs from the air.
✅ No Ozone Emission – Some air purifiers produce ozone , which can irritate lungs and worsen symptoms.
✅ Continuous Air Circulation – Running the air purifier consistently helps eliminate mould odours over time .
Placing an air purifier in high-risk areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens will significantly reduce mould odours and improve indoor air quality .
✔️ Use a dehumidifier – Maintain indoor humidity levels at 30–50% to prevent mould growth.
✔️ Fix leaks and seal cracks – Mould thrives in hidden moisture sources .
✔️ Use exhaust fans in bathrooms & kitchens – Removes steam and excess humidity.
✔️ Increase airflow – Keep windows open when possible to prevent stale, damp air buildup .
Since mould needs moisture to grow , eliminating excess humidity is crucial to preventing future growth .
To eliminate mould spores and musty odours , place air purifiers in the most vulnerable areas of your home:
✔️ Bathrooms – Steam from showers encourages mould growth.
✔️ Basements & attics – Poor ventilation leads to trapped moisture.
✔️ Kitchens & laundry rooms – Cooking steam and damp laundry contribute to humidity.
✔️ Bedrooms – Mould spores in bedding or carpets can affect sleep quality and breathing .
For best results , run your air purifier continuously in affected areas .
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✔️ People with Allergies & Asthma – Mould spores trigger respiratory issues and increase inflammation .
✔️ Children & Elderly Individuals – More vulnerable to mould-related health risks .
✔️ Homeowners in Humid Climates – Constant moisture promotes mould growth year-round .
✔️ Anyone Experiencing Persistent Musty Odours – If the smell keeps coming back , it's a sign that mould spores are still present .
If you or your family members experience allergy symptoms or musty odours , investing in an air purifier and proper moisture control is essential.
Even after cleaning visible mould and removing musty odours , the problem can come back if you don’t take long-term prevention measures . To ensure mould doesn’t return, follow these steps:
✔️ Keep Humidity Levels Low – Maintain indoor humidity below 50% using a dehumidifier or air conditioner .
✔️ Use a HEPA Air Purifier Continuously – Keep it running to trap airborne mould spores before they settle .
✔️ Improve Ventilation – Open windows when possible and use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms .
✔️ Fix Leaks & Address Water Damage Quickly – Even small leaks can lead to major mould problems.
✔️ Regularly Inspect & Clean High-Risk Areas – Check bathrooms, basements, and attics for any signs of moisture buildup.
By combining air purification, humidity control, and regular maintenance , you can keep your home mould-free and permanently eliminate musty odours .
Yes. A persistent musty odour is often a sign of active mould growth , even if you can’t see it .
Yes! A True HEPA & activated carbon air purifier removes airborne mould spores and MVOCs , eliminating musty odours over time.
✔️ After cleaning – The smell may linger for a few days .
✔️ With an air purifier – It can significantly reduce odours within hours to days .
✅ Air Purifier – Removes airborne spores and musty odours .
✅ Dehumidifier – Reduces moisture levels to stop mould from growing .
💡 Using both together is the best way to eliminate mould permanently .
Yes. If the source of moisture or spores isn’t removed , the smell will return .
The musty smell of mould isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a warning sign of poor indoor air quality. By eliminating the source, purifying the air, and controlling humidity , you can:
✅ Remove musty odours permanently
✅ Improve respiratory health & reduce allergies
✅ Prevent mould from coming back
🛒 Looking for the best air purifier to eliminate mould odours? Sho