So, you’ve walked into your home, and you’re hit with a whiff of something musty, something that just says “old house.” What’s causing that funky smell?
Well, the answer isn’t always straightforward, but there are a few common culprits that can make your home smell like it’s seen better days.
Here’s why your house might smell old, along with tips for eliminating that odor once and for all.
What Causes Your House to Smell Old?
The musty “old house” smell is more than just an annoyance—it’s a sign of deeper issues in your home. Moisture, dust, and hidden mold often team up to create odors that stick around no matter how much you clean.
According to the EPA, keeping indoor humidity below 60% is essential to stopping mold and dampness in their tracks. (ref) Next, we’ll break down exactly what’s causing these smells and how to get rid of them for good.
How to Freshen Up the Air in Your Home
If your house smells old or musty, don’t worry—there are eight simple ways to freshen up the air and get rid of those unpleasant odors. Let’s start with your HVAC.
1. Start with the Air Vents & Filters
One of the first places to check is your air vents and HVAC system. Over time, dust and dirt can build up in your vents, making the air in your home smell stale. Changing the air filter in your heating and cooling system regularly can help prevent this.
You can also wipe down the vents with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Clean air ducts or consider having them professionally cleaned if the smell is still stuck.
2. Use Natural Fresheners
Sometimes, store-bought air fresheners just mask the problem. Instead, try using natural scents to freshen up the air. You can place bowls of baking soda around the house to absorb odors.
Or, try simmering a pot of water with a few slices of lemon, cinnamon sticks, or other herbs for a natural, pleasant scent. Another option is using essential oils in a diffuser to spread fresh aromas around your home.
3. Clean Carpets & Rugs
Carpets and rugs can trap odors, so it’s important to clean them regularly. Vacuum your carpets thoroughly, paying attention to the edges and corners where dust and dirt accumulate.
If there’s a lingering smell, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, and then vacuum it up. This will help absorb bad smells. If your carpets are really dirty, consider having them professionally cleaned.
4. Tackle Mold & Mildew
As discussed earlier, moisture can cause mold and mildew, which lead to musty odors. If you spot any mold, clean it immediately using a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild bleach solution.
For larger areas of mold, it might be a good idea to call in a professional to make sure it’s properly removed.
5. Wash Curtains & Upholstery
Fabrics like curtains, cushions, and furniture upholstery can trap odors, too. Washing your curtains and cleaning your furniture with a vacuum or fabric cleaner can help reduce the musty smell.
If your furniture is too large to clean easily, using a fabric spray or steam cleaner can freshen it up.
6. Ventilate Your Home
Sometimes, all your home needs is a little fresh air. Open windows and doors when possible to let in outside air.
This can help remove stale air and reduce the humidity that may be contributing to the smell. If you can’t open windows often, consider using a fan to increase airflow or get a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air.
7. Paint the Walls
Walls are sneaky. They can also trap smells, just like carpets do. That means if your walls are old or stained, they might be holding onto some funky odors. The good news is that a fresh coat of paint can be a game changer.
Not only will it give your home a shiny new look, but it can also help mask any lingering smells from the past. So if you’ve been wondering why your home still smells like your great-aunt’s pot roast, it might be time to give those walls a fresh coat of paint.
8. Deep Clean Regularly
Regular cleaning goes a long way in keeping your home fresh. Wipe down surfaces, sweep, mop, and clean places that are often overlooked, like baseboards, ceiling fans, and behind furniture. The more you keep your home clean, the less likely odors will have a chance to build up.
These cleaning tips can help you stay on top of the air quality in your home. With a little time and effort, your home will feel clean and inviting again.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.