1. Baking Soda: The Pantry Deodoriser
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a famously effective and affordable odour neutraliser. It works by absorbing moisture and neutralising both acidic and basic odours, rather than just masking them. [20, 29] For general dampness, place
an open box or a bowl of baking soda in the affected area, such as a closet, a musty corner of a room, or inside your refrigerator. [20] For carpets that have taken on a damp smell, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the dry surface, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight, and then vacuum it up thoroughly. [6, 29] You can also boost your laundry by adding half a cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle to freshen musty towels and clothes. [6, 19]
2. White Vinegar: The Acidic Neutraliser
Don't be put off by its own strong scent; white vinegar is a formidable opponent of musty smells. Its power lies in acetic acid, which breaks down and neutralises the alkaline molecules that cause many common odours. [5, 25] A simple method is to place a bowl of white vinegar in a room for several hours; as the vinegar evaporates, it will remove the unwanted smells from the air. [25] The initial vinegar aroma will dissipate as it dries, taking the mustiness with it. [5] For cleaning surfaces, a spray bottle filled with a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water can be used to wipe down walls, shelves, and other hard surfaces where mildew might be forming. [5, 11]
3. Activated Charcoal: The Super Adsorbent
Activated charcoal is a step above your barbecue briquettes. Its immense surface area, covered in microscopic pores, makes it incredibly effective at trapping odour-causing molecules through a process called adsorption. [2, 22] Unlike ingredients that absorb smells, charcoal traps the molecules on its surface, making it a highly efficient and long-lasting solution. [2, 7] You can buy pre-made charcoal bags or make your own by placing activated charcoal pellets in a breathable pouch. [15, 22] Place these in drawers, closets, basements, or even your gym bag to combat moisture and odours effectively. [2, 15] Studies have even shown it to be more effective than baking soda for eliminating refrigerator smells. [15]
4. Rock Salt: The DIY Dehumidifier
Damp smells are often a direct result of excess moisture in the air. Rock salt is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally attracts and absorbs water from its surroundings. [4, 17] You can create a simple, non-electric dehumidifier by taking two buckets. Drill several small holes in the bottom of one bucket, place it inside the second, and fill the top bucket with rock salt. [4, 17] The salt will pull moisture from the air, which will then drip into the bottom bucket. [4] This method is particularly useful for damp basements, closets, or any enclosed space with poor ventilation. Remember to empty the collected water regularly. [17]
5. Coffee Grounds: The Aromatic Absorber
Your morning coffee can do more than just wake you up. Used, dry coffee grounds are excellent at both absorbing and masking unpleasant smells. [28] After you've brewed your coffee, spread the grounds out to dry completely to prevent them from getting mouldy. Once dry, place them in a small bowl or a breathable sachet. [28] They can be placed in your fridge, freezer, or pantry to tackle food odours, or in other small spaces that need freshening up. [1] The strong, pleasant aroma of coffee will replace the musty smell while the grounds absorb the lingering odours.
6. Essential Oils: The Fragrant Finish
While some natural ingredients absorb odours, essential oils can be used to add a pleasant scent back into your space and, in some cases, fight the source of the smell. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and lemon are known for their natural antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of mould and mildew that cause musty smells. [3, 8, 23] Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and a little white vinegar for a natural air freshener. [26, 30] You can also add them to a diffuser to purify the air while leaving a refreshing, natural fragrance. [3, 9] Unlike chemical sprays that just cover up smells, these oils can help clean the air. [23]
