Having a musty, moldy smell in your bedroom can be very unpleasant and concerning. Mold growth releases spores and chemicals into the air which cause that characteristic moldy odor. Breathing in mold spores over time can also lead to potential health issues, so it’s important to address any mold issues right away. The good news is there are several effective methods you can use to stop your bedroom from smelling like mold.
What Causes Moldy Smells in the Bedroom?
Mold grows when excess moisture is present. The most common causes of mold growth and musty smells in a bedroom include:
- Water leaks or flooding
- High humidity levels
- Lack of proper ventilation
- Condensation building up on windows and cold surfaces
If you don’t address the source of the moisture, then mold will continue to grow and release smelly spores. Areas in a bedroom where you may find mold growth include behind furniture, under carpeting, inside closets, on walls behind hangings, and around windows.
How to Eliminate Mold Odors from the Bedroom
Here are the most effective methods to get rid of moldy smells from a bedroom:
1. Locate and Remove Mold Growth
The first step is to find and remove any visible mold growth. Examine under carpet edges, behind furniture, inside closets and on walls. Look for visible black, green or white fuzzy mold. You may need to remove baseboards or lift up sections of carpet to check underneath.
Once located, put on gloves, goggles and a face mask for protection. Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, then completely dry the area. Moldy drywall, carpet or other soft, porous materials will need to be discarded. Be sure to put moldy items in a sealed plastic bag before removing to prevent spore spread.
2. Identify and Fix Moisture Sources
Next, do a thorough inspection to identify and fix any moisture issues that could be contributing to mold growth. Check for leaks around plumbing, windows, foundations and roofs. Use a dehumidifier or moisture absorber to reduce humidity levels. Increase air circulation and ventilation. Repair leaks properly and make sure affected porous materials are cleaned and dried fully.
3. Kill Remaining Mold with Bleach
After physical removal, kill any lingering mold by disinfecting surfaces with a bleach solution. Mix 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water and apply it liberally to affected areas. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes before rinsing and drying completely. Repeat as needed until the musty smell dissipates.
4. AbsorbOdors with Baking Soda
Baking soda can help absorb lingering moldy odors from the air. Place shallow dishes of baking soda around the bedroom and leave for several days until odors are reduced. You can also sprinkle baking soda directly on carpets, let sit for a few hours, then vacuum up.
5. Air Out the Room
Increase fresh air flow into the bedroom by opening windows, using fans, and running a dehumidifier. The improved air circulation will help dissipate the moldy smell faster. If weather permits, open windows to air out the space for several hours a day.
6. Use Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers
Use portable air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters to actively remove mold spores and musty smells. Run the air purifiers continuously to constantly filter the bedroom’s air. Dehumidifiers also reduce airborne mold spores by decreasing humidity levels under 50%.
7. Clean Fabrics and Furnishings
Wash sheets, curtains, blankets and any other fabrics in the bedroom that may have absorbed the moldy odor. Use hot water, bleach and baking soda for optimal odor removal. For furniture, sprinkle baking soda directly on upholstered surfaces and carpets, let sit, then vacuum off.
8. Repaint Walls
If odors linger in the walls, a fresh coat of mold-resistant paint can seal in any remaining smells. Make sure affected walls are scrubbed thoroughly and completely dry before painting. Ask for mold and mildew resistant paint at your local hardware store.
9. Consider Professional Mold Remediation
For severe mold problems or odors that persist despite your best efforts, professional mold remediation may be necessary. Companies use truck-mounted HEPA vacuums and antimicrobial solutions to thoroughly clean air ducts, vents, carpets and furnishings throughout the bedroom and home.
Tips for Preventing Future Mold Growth and Odors
Here are some tips to help prevent mold odors from returning:
- Use exhaust fans while showering and cooking.
- Keep humidity under 50%.
- Allow proper ventilation around furniture and furnishings against walls.
- Clean and dry spills right away.
- Check for leaks and condensation.
- Clean carpets and fabrics regularly.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Be aware that mold may exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma. Seek medical help if you experience wheezing, shortness of breath, sinus congestion, itchy eyes or other symptoms when exposed to moldy environments. Headaches, fatigue and nausea may also occur from mold exposure. Let your doctor know if your home has had a mold issue.
Conclusion
A moldy, musty smell in the bedroom can negatively impact your comfort and health. Identifying and fixing the source of moisture is key, along with thoroughly cleaning and drying affected areas. Absorbents like baking soda, air purification, increased ventilation and preventative measures will also help rid your bedroom of unwanted mold odors. With persistence and the right techniques, you can successfully eliminate those unpleasant moldy smells for good.