Once you’ve smelled it, it’s unmistakable. That musty smell tells you that something, somewhere, is damp and getting worse by the minute. But what causes this distinctive odor? If you’re dealing with this right now, it’s important to know what causes this problem and how to deal with it. At Steamatic of Red River, we have helped many people rid their homes of musty smells. Here are the facts about the root causes of damp odors and what to do about them.
What is causing the musty smell?
Although this smell occurs when things are damp or humid, it isn’t water you smell. Whenever moisture builds up, mold spores have exactly what they need to thrive. These spores are everywhere, even in clean homes. When they land somewhere that’s damp and stuffy, they promptly start to grow.
Mold spores start to grow quickly when they find the right conditions, and the musty smell you recognize comes from them developing and producing certain gasses. That musty odor you smell isn’t caused by still air and moisture but by the mold that loves to grow in those conditions.
A dripping pipe, leaky roof, or cracked foundation can cause these conditions. Poor ventilation can exacerbate the problem by preventing moisture from evaporating fully.
Are musty smells dangerous?
Unless you have a severe allergy to mold, you probably won’t get sick the first time you notice a musty smell. However, over time, mold exposure can cause problems. Some symptoms people may experience include headaches, fever, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, itchy skin or eyes, and nasal congestion. People often dismiss these issues as allergies, thinking they are reacting to something growing outside the home, but the problem could be as close as your kitchen sink.
It’s important to note that everyone has a different level of sensitivity to mold. Some people are very reactive and will have symptoms crop up within a day or two of smelling musty odors. If you have a condition that may make your reaction to mold severe, such as asthma, it’s even more important to take care of the issue so you can breathe freely. But where should you start?
How to find the source of musty smells
At Steamatic, our experts know how challenging it can be to find the problem. It may take some time to track down exactly where the smell comes from, but it’s worth the effort because mold doesn’t go away independently. To get rid of it, you must remove the moisture, help it grow, and thoroughly clean away the existing mold.
You’ll have to follow your nose to find where the mold is hiding. Search in warm and damp areas, such as under sinks or behind the washing machine. Anywhere moisture can get trapped, such as under a potted plant or in the wall where pipe leaks, can become a cozy home for a mold colony.
Check under, behind, and around typical spots such as:
- Sinks
- Shower and bathtub
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Windows
- Closets
- Under potted plants and trash cans
- Water heater
- Air conditioner
- Attic
- Basement
Are you experiencing a musty smell in your house? Contact Steamatic today!
Finding and eliminating a musty smell can be frustrating, but Steamatic of Red River Valley professionals have the expertise to tackle and eliminate the root causes. We have the tools and knowledge to thoroughly repair water and mold damage and clean your home. If you’re struggling with musty smells, contact us today and let us help you breathe easier.
Image Credit: Dean Drobot / Shutterstock
