The short answer
Find the Source First
A musty smell usually means moisture is still trapped somewhere. Check baseboards, under carpets, inside cabinets, and behind furniture. Use your nose and your hand to feel for damp spots. In a humid climate like Rowlett's, trapped moisture can linger for days if left alone.
Once you locate the damp area, dry it as much as you can. Open windows, run fans, and use a dehumidifier. Removing the moisture is the first real step to killing the odor. Without drying, any cover-up scent will only mask the problem temporarily.
Clean Hard Surfaces
Wipe down walls, floors, and countertops with a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Pay attention to corners and crevices where grime and moisture collect. For non-porous surfaces, a mix of water and white vinegar can help neutralize odors without harsh chemicals.
Rinse the surfaces with plain water afterward and dry them with a clean cloth. Let everything air out completely. Avoid using strong perfumes or bleach-based cleaners at first, as they can react with residues and create new smells. Simple cleaning often does the trick.
- Wipe down walls and baseboards
- Clean floors and countertops
- Use a mild soap and water mix
- Rinse with plain water
- Dry with a clean cloth
- Open windows to air out
Treat Fabrics and Carpets
Carpets, rugs, upholstery, and curtains can hold onto odors for a long time. Sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it up. For washable fabrics, launder them according to the care label.
If the smell comes from a flood or a major leak, padding underneath carpet may be soaked. In that case, the carpet and padding might need to be removed entirely. A water damage professional can help you decide what is worth saving and what should go.
- Sprinkle baking soda on carpets
- Let it sit for several hours
- Vacuum thoroughly
- Wash curtains and cushion covers
- Check the padding underneath
- Remove soaked padding if needed
Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Baking soda, activated charcoal, and white vinegar are simple odor absorbers you can place in bowls around the affected room. Change or refresh them every few days. These work quietly in the background without adding strong scents to your home.
You can also use a commercial odor neutralizer designed for water damage. Look for products that break down odor molecules rather than just covering them. Follow the product instructions carefully and keep the room ventilated while the treatment works.
When to Call the Pros
If you have dried the area, cleaned thoroughly, and the odor still will not leave, the problem may be deeper than surface level. Moisture can hide inside walls, under flooring, or in structural materials. A water damage inspection can help identify hidden damp spots.
The pros use specialized equipment to find moisture and dry out structures. They can also remove and replace water-damaged drywall or flooring. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. If the smell is affecting your health, see a doctor if you feel unwell.
- Persistent odor after drying
- Visible mold growth
- Warped or stained walls
- Soft or spongy flooring
- Unknown source of moisture
- Health concerns from the smell
Need help right now?
Call (214) 730-5993 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get rid of a musty smell?
It depends on the source. Small surface odors may fade within a day or two of drying and cleaning. If moisture is trapped in walls or under flooring, it can take longer. Patience and thorough drying are key.
Can I just use air fresheners to cover the smell?
Air fresheners only mask the odor temporarily. They do not remove the source of the smell, which is often moisture. Without drying the area, the musty scent will return. Focus on drying and cleaning first.
What if the odor comes back after cleaning?
A returning odor usually means moisture is still present somewhere. Recheck for damp spots, especially in hidden areas. If you cannot find the source, consider a professional inspection to locate trapped water and prevent further damage.