Get Rid Of That Mildew Smell In Your Bedroom

A musty bedroom is often the result of mould or mildew, which thrive in damp, stagnant environments with poor ventilation. To get rid of the smell, you'll first need to identify its source. Common culprits include leaks, water damage, and condensation. Once you've found the cause, you can take steps to fix the problem and eliminate the smell. This may involve cleaning and disinfecting the affected area, increasing ventilation and airflow, and using natural deodorisers like baking soda or vinegar.

Identify the source of the smell

To identify the source of the mildew smell in your bedroom, you should start by checking common areas where mould and mildew tend to grow.

Begin by checking your bedroom windows and windowsills for leaks, as condensation can gather here. Also, check your windowsills for mildew, as it often grows in flat patches and appears white, grey, or yellow. Check any potted plants you have, as mould loves to grow in damp soil.

Next, check your mattress for signs of mould. Mattresses can be a haven for mould as they are often warm and damp from sweat. Check your bedroom walls for any signs of water damage, such as buckled or rippled surfaces, or wet spots, which could indicate a plumbing issue.

If you have a closet in your bedroom, check for mildew caused by storing damp shoes or clothes. Closets are often dark and airless, making them a perfect breeding ground for mould.

If you have a bedroom ensuite, check your shower curtain, and temporarily relocate toiletries that may be obscuring your view of the likeliest breeding grounds, such as grout lines or tub caulking. Check for mildew growth in the shower, on the shower curtain, and leaks around sinks, tubs, and toilets.

If you are unable to identify the source of the mildew smell in your bedroom, it may be worthwhile to call a professional to assist you.

Repair leaks and control moisture

To get musty smells under control, repair any leaks that you find. It's the best way to control the odour. In areas with excessive moisture, install ventilation fans, place moisture barriers over damp soil, or redirect water flow on the home's exterior.

Increase air circulation by opening windows and doors, turning on ceiling and attic fans, or adding fans to each room. Starting your HVAC system can also help draw out odours and capture mould spores in the filters. Be sure that the system has clean filters and replace them often to help remove musty smells.

Use exhaust fans in bathrooms to remove steam. In damp areas, fill a large container about halfway with a moisture absorber like baking soda, rock salt, charcoal briquettes, or kitty litter. Replace every month or so.

Perform regular checks of your home's systems to ensure there are no water leaks, and promptly fix any leaks in your home's roof, walls, or plumbing.

Increase air circulation

Increasing air circulation is a crucial step in eliminating mildew smells from your bedroom. Here are some detailed tips to improve airflow and remove that musty odour:

Open Windows and Doors

The simplest way to increase air circulation is to open windows and doors. By doing so, you can create a cross-breeze that will ventilate your bedroom and help remove stale, musty air. This method also allows fresh air to enter and circulate throughout the space.

Utilise Fans

Box and ceiling fans are excellent tools for improving air circulation. Place fans near open windows to draw in fresh air and direct it into the room. Ceiling fans, in particular, are useful for constant airflow and can be left running even when you're not in the room. Attic fans can also help remove stale air from the upper levels of your home.

Install Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are designed to improve indoor air quality. They can help reduce odours and eliminate bacteria and fungi in the air, including mildew spores. Consider investing in a quality air purifier to help combat mildew smells and improve the overall air circulation in your bedroom.

Enhance Natural Light

Natural light, particularly sunlight, can be a powerful tool in your fight against mildew. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible, as it helps kill germs and bacteria. Sunlight also has a drying effect, which can reduce the moisture that mildew thrives on.

Try Houseplants

Decorating your bedroom with houseplants can improve air circulation and quality. Certain houseplants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing harmful substances and releasing fresh oxygen. Opt for plants like peace lilies, spider plants, or aloe vera, which are known for their air-purifying properties.

Install a dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are a great way to combat mildew and prevent it from coming back. They work by removing excess moisture from the air, which is crucial as mildew thrives in damp environments.

When choosing a dehumidifier, opt for one that suits the size of your bedroom. If your bedroom is on the smaller side, a compact dehumidifier will do the trick. For larger bedrooms, consider investing in a unit with a higher capacity. Place the dehumidifier in an area of your bedroom where airflow won't be obstructed, such as near a window or door.

Once you've selected and positioned your dehumidifier, it's important to use it consistently, especially during humid periods. Empty the water collection bin regularly to ensure the unit functions optimally. Additionally, keep the dehumidifier clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth and, if necessary, using a mild detergent.

If you're dealing with a persistent mildew problem, you may want to opt for a more heavy-duty dehumidifier. These units are typically larger and have a higher moisture removal capacity. They are often used in basements or other areas prone to high humidity.

In addition to using a dehumidifier, there are other measures you can take to prevent mildew. Ensure your bedroom has proper ventilation by opening windows or using fans. Keep your bedroom clutter-free, as stacks of papers and books can trap moisture. Finally, consider using natural odour absorbers like baking soda or charcoal briquettes to help control humidity levels and neutralise odours.

Deep clean carpets and upholstery

To deep clean carpets and upholstery, you should first identify and eliminate the source of the mildew smell. Check that the carpet is not damp and look for any signs of water damage or leaks on the walls, ceilings, and under furniture. Once identified, fix any leaks or spills and dry the area thoroughly. If necessary, pull back the edges of the carpet or remove baseboards to improve airflow. Using a dehumidifier can also help eliminate moisture from the air and carpet. If the carpet padding has been water-damaged, replace it to prevent the smell from returning. If sections of the carpet are damaged, cut them out and replace them.

Next, vacuum the carpet thoroughly, going over the entire area in overlapping passes. Use the crevice attachment to reach hard-to-reach areas where mildew may be lurking. Empty the vacuum and wipe the filters after each use to prevent transferring mildew spores back onto the carpet.

After vacuuming, apply a cleaning solution to the carpet. You can use commercial carpet cleaning products or home remedies such as baking soda, salt, high-proof cleaning alcohol, hydrogen peroxide diluted with water, or vinegar. For upholstery, you can use fabric-safe bleach or apply it by hand, then rinse and leave to dry.

For small areas of carpet, use a scrub brush, toothbrush, or scrub pad. For larger areas, rent an electric carpet scrubber or steam cleaner. Apply the cleaning solution and scrub in small circles, working from the outside in. Let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes, then use a towel or wet/dry vacuum to absorb as much moisture as possible. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any remaining residue. Repeat this step for tough stains, but be careful not to oversaturate the carpet.

Open the windows to ventilate the room and speed up drying time. Running an air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help eliminate any remaining musty smells. It is important to dry the carpet quickly to prevent mildew from growing. Use fans to increase airflow and speed up the drying process.

To absorb any remaining odours, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the entire carpeted area and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly, going over the area a few times to pick up all the granules. For tough smells, you can also use activated charcoal by placing containers of it around the room and replacing it monthly.

If the mildew odour persists, consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning service or a mould remediation specialist to address the issue.

Frequently asked questions