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Do you smell that?
Usually, this indicates that there is a mold or mildew problem.
What Causes Musty Smells?
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When the spores begin to multiply, they emit gasses that our noses can detect.
Unfortunately, mold spores multiply quickly, and it doesn’t take a huge colony to create odors.
If the mold area is larger than 10 square feet, you may need professional mold abatement.
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Are Mold and Mildew Dangerous?
Exposure to mold and mildew in the home can be hazardous to your health.
Tip
Don’t forget to sniff yourlaundry hamper.
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If damp towels are left in a heap, mildew can also form there.
It’s the best way to gain control over the odor.
Open windows and doors, turn on ceiling and attic fans, or add fans to each room.
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Starting your HVAC system can alsohelp draw out odorsand capture mold spores in the filters.
Be sure that the system hasclean filtersand replace them often to help remove musty smells.
Air purifiers can make a big difference in reducing the smell and the spread of spores.
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make a run at keep your interior humidity no higher than 50%.
To gauge the moisture level in your home, get a hygrometer or humidity sensor.
Keep the dehumidifier clean and regularly empty the water-collection bin.
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For a more moderate mold area, use bleach to clean up the mold.
In a 1 gallon bucket of water, dilute 1 cup of chlorine bleach.
This solution effectively kills mildew on surfaces like ceramic tile and grout, cement walls, and washable fabrics.
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you might also use a more natural approach by spraying the area with distilled white vinegar.
Locate the source of the mold.
You will need to change out that area of wall insulation too.
Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water.
Dry all items completely.
Repaint cleaned wall surfaces with latex paint that contains a mildewcide to help stop future mold growth.
Throw away any moldy absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet.
Mold may be difficult or impossible to remove entirely from those materials.
If you’re free to’t find the source of the mold, you should call a professional.
If the bathroom or kitchen is the source of your problem, then clean with mold-killing products.
The key to maintaining a mold- and mildew-free home is being diligent.
It can be challenging in climates with high humidity or poor ventilation.
Centers for Disease Control.Mold.
US Environmental Protection Agency.Mold cleanup in your home.
