How to Get Rid of Musty Mould Smells for Good

How to Get Rid of Musty Mould Smells for Good

Written by: Karan Mithi

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Published on

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Time to read 5 min

A musty mould smell is more than just unpleasant—it’s a sign that mould spores and excess moisture are present in your home. If left untreated, mould can lead to health issues, allergies, and long-term damage to your property . Simply masking the odour with air fresheners or candles won’t solve the problem. To get rid of musty mould smells permanently, you need to eliminate the source, remove airborne mould spores, and improve ventilation .

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔️ Why mould smells musty and what causes it
✔️ How mould odours affect your health
✔️ Effective methods to eliminate the smell permanently 


Why Does Mould Smell Musty?

The musty smell of mould comes from MVOCs (Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) —gaseous byproducts released as mould grows and breaks down organic material. This odour lingers because:

✔️ Mould spores are still airborne – Even if you clean the surface, spores continue to float in the air.
✔️ Mould has penetrated porous materials – Carpets, walls, and furniture absorb the smell.
✔️ Excess moisture is present – High humidity allows mould to keep spreading and producing odours.

If you notice a persistent musty smell, mould is still active somewhere in your home .

How Mould Odours Can Impact Your Health

Even if you can’t see visible mould , breathing in mould spores and MVOCs can cause:

⚠️ Allergy symptoms – Sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
⚠️ Respiratory issues – Mould spores can trigger asthma attacks and lung irritation.
⚠️ Headaches & dizziness – Prolonged exposure to mould-related VOCs can cause fatigue and cognitive issues.
⚠️ Sinus infections & throat irritation – Mould can inflame the airways, leading to persistent coughing or sore throats.

For those with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems , exposure to mouldy air can be particularly harmful.

How to Remove Musty Mould Odours Permanently

Getting rid of the musty smell for good requires a three-step approach :

Step 1: Identify and Remove the Mould Source

✔️ Inspect damp areas – Check bathrooms, basements, and kitchens where moisture builds up.
✔️ Look for hidden mould – Behind furniture, inside vents, under carpets, or in air conditioning systems .
✔️ Use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide – Unlike bleach, these kill mould at the root instead of just removing stains.
✔️ Replace heavily affected materials – If carpets, drywall, or insulation have been severely contaminated , replacing them is the best solution.


Step 2: Use an Air Purifier to Remove Mould Spores from the Air

Even after surface cleaning, airborne mould spores remain . An air purifier with a HEPA filter is the best way to capture these invisible particles and prevent regrowth .

What to Look for in an Air Purifier for Mould & Odours:

True HEPA Filter – Captures 99.97% of airborne mould spores .
✅ Activated Carbon Filter – Absorbs musty odours and VOCs.
✅ Continuous Air Circulation – Prevents spores from resettling.
No Ozone Emission – Some purifiers generate ozone , which can worsen respiratory symptoms.

Placing an air purifier in mould-prone areas like bathrooms, basements, and bedrooms helps eliminate both the smell and the airborne spores that cause it .


Step 3: Improve Ventilation & Reduce Humidity

Mould thrives in damp conditions. To prevent the musty smell from returning , keep moisture levels under control:

✔️ Use a dehumidifier – Keep humidity between 30–50% to prevent mould growth.
✔️ Fix leaks & improve airflow – Repair plumbing leaks and use exhaust fans in high-humidity areas.
✔️ Keep windows open when possible – Increasing ventilation reduces trapped moisture and mould spores .
✔️ Dry damp surfaces immediately – Don’t let wet clothes, towels, or spills sit for too long.

By controlling humidity and airflow , you eliminate the conditions mould needs to grow .

Natural Methods to Absorb Musty Odours

Alongside an air purifier, these natural deodorisers help absorb lingering mould smells:

✔️ Baking Soda – Place bowls of baking soda around musty rooms to absorb odours.
✔️ White Vinegar – A natural odour neutraliser—place a bowl in affected areas.
✔️ Activated Charcoal – Absorbs moisture and eliminates mould smells.
✔️ Essential Oils – Tea tree and eucalyptus oils have antifungal properties that help prevent mould regrowth.

Using these methods after mould removal ensures your space stays fresh and odour-free .


Air purifier
  1. "How a True HEPA Filter Removes 99.97% of Allergens & Pollutants"

  2. "Why True HEPA Filtration is Essential for Allergy and Asthma Relief" 

Where to Place an Air Purifier for Maximum Effectiveness

To ensure mould spores and musty odours are fully removed, place air purifiers in high-risk areas , including:

✔️ Bathrooms – Mould thrives in warm, damp environments .
✔️ Basements & Attics – Poor ventilation leads to trapped moisture.
✔️ Bedrooms – Helps people with mould allergies breathe easier while sleeping .
✔️ Laundry Rooms – Prevents damp towels and washing machines from developing musty smells.
✔️ Living Areas & Kitchens – Removes airborne mould spores from common spaces .

Using multiple air purifiers in large homes can help circulate cleaner air more effectively .

Preventing Musty Mould Smells from Coming Back

To ensure the musty odour never returns , follow these long-term prevention tips:

✔️ Use an air purifier with HEPA & carbon filters continuously – Keeps airborne spores and odours at bay .
✔️ Regularly inspect & clean mould-prone areas – Bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms need frequent checks .
✔️ Replace HVAC filters & clean air ducts – Mould can spread through ventilation systems if not properly maintained.
✔️ Wash fabrics & upholstery often – Mould spores can settle into curtains, carpets, and furniture .
✔️ Monitor humidity levels – Keep an eye on moisture-prone areas using a humidity sensor.

By following these steps, you can eliminate musty mould smells permanently and maintain a fresher, healthier home .


Frequently Asked Questions

Does a musty smell always mean mould is present?

Yes. A persistent musty odour usually indicates hidden mould or excessive humidity , even if you can’t see it .


Can air purifiers remove musty odours completely?

Yes! A True HEPA & activated carbon air purifier removes both airborne mould spores and odour-causing MVOCs .


How long does it take to remove a musty smell?

✔️ After cleaning the mould – The odour may linger for a few days .
✔️ With an air purifier – The smell should improve within hours but may take a few days to disappear completely.

What’s better for mould control: an air purifier or a dehumidifier?

Air Purifier – Removes mould spores and musty odours .
Dehumidifier – Reduces moisture, stopping mould from regrowing .
💡 Best solution? Use both together to eliminate mould for good.



Will the musty smell come back if I don’t remove the mould?

Yes. If the moisture source and mould spores are not removed, the odour will return over time.

Final Thoughts: Say Goodbye to Musty Mould Smells for Good

A musty mould smell is a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. By removing the source, improving air quality, and preventing regrowth , you can:

✅ Eliminate musty odours permanently
✅ Improve indoor air quality & respiratory health
Prevent mould from returning

🛒 Looking for the best air purifier to remove musty mould smells? Shop now and enjoy cleaner, fresher air!