How To Remove Musty Smell: 10 Home, Clothes & Carpet Fixes

Open the door, and there it is—that stale, damp, “old basement” smell that seems to cling to rooms, carpets, closets, or even your towels. A musty odor isn’t just unpleasant; it usually means moisture is hanging around where it shouldn’t be. That can come from slow leaks, wet carpet padding, humid bathrooms, or a washer that never quite dries out. Left alone, the smell seeps into fabrics and can signal conditions where mold and mildew thrive.

This guide gives you 10 proven fixes to remove musty smells at the source—at home, on clothes, and in carpet—so the freshness actually lasts. You’ll learn how to track down and stop moisture, set indoor humidity to 40–50% with smart ventilation and dehumidification, deodorize and deep clean carpets, wash and refresh musty laundry (plus clean your washer and dryer), revive furniture and mattresses, fix smelly closets, and use safe air cleaning and odor adsorbers. We’ll flag what to avoid (like ozone machines in occupied homes), share step-by-steps and safety tips, and explain when it’s time to call a certified pro—if you’re in the Austin area, Water Damage Repair Tech can help with persistent odors, leaks, or visible mold. Let’s start at the source and work through the quickest wins.

1. Call Water Damage Repair Tech (Austin, TX) for persistent musty odors, leaks, or mold

If the musty smell keeps coming back, you’re likely dealing with hidden moisture or active mold that DIY alone won’t solve. In the Austin area, Water Damage Repair Tech provides 24/7 emergency response (30‑minute arrival window), free estimates, and IICRC‑certified water damage and mold remediation to stop the source, dry the structure, and remove contamination for good.

What it is

A professional mitigation and restoration service that handles emergency water cleanup and removal, structural drying, mold remediation, storm damage cleanup, and interior demolition to prep for rebuild. The goal is to eliminate the moisture driving the odor and restore your home safely and efficiently.

When to use it

Call when musty odors persist after basic cleaning or you see signs that point to hidden moisture or mold. Quick action limits damage and protects indoor air quality.

• Visible mold or black spots: Especially if you suspect black mold; bring in an expert.

• Recurring wet spots or leaks: Under sinks, around appliances, or near walls/floors.

• Buckled/rippled flooring or water stains: Possible water damage that needs diagnosis.

• Post‑flood, burst pipe, or storm damage: Standing water or soaked materials.

• Odor returns after dehumidifying/ventilating: Likely hidden moisture in materials.

• Musty laundry/rooms tied to plumbing issues: Source control is required.

Step-by-step

1. Call 24/7: Describe odors, leaks, and affected rooms; request a free estimate.

2. On‑site assessment: Identify sources and map affected materials.

3. Water removal and stabilization: Extract water and secure the area.

4. Targeted demolition as needed: Safely remove saturated, unsalvageable items.

5. Professional drying: Deploy industrial dehumidification and airflow.

6. Mold remediation: IICRC‑standard containment, removal, and cleaning.

7. Documentation and next steps: Prep for reconstruction and odor verification.

Safety and pro tips

• Don’t DIY large mold areas: If you suspect black mold, call a pro immediately.

• Ventilate and reduce humidity while you wait: Fresh air and dehumidifiers help.

• Avoid ozone in occupied spaces: Ozone machines should never run while people or pets are inside.

• Act fast on leaks: The sooner you stop moisture, the easier it is to remove musty smell at the source.

2. Track down and stop the moisture source (leaks, condensation, drainage)

To truly remove a musty smell, you have to stop the moisture feeding it. That usually means finding slow plumbing leaks, condensation on cold pipes, rain intrusion in basements, or wet household items (like laundry or pet bedding) that never fully dry. Fixing the source prevents odors from rebounding.

What it is

A focused hunt for hidden dampness and small water problems that allow mold and mildew to thrive. You’ll check common culprits—under‐sink plumbing, showers, dishwashers/garbage disposals, basements, and “sweating” pipes—and clean any light growth with appropriate solutions.

When to use it

Do this as your first line of defense any time you notice musty air or it returns after cleaning. It’s essential if you see clues that point to ongoing moisture.

• Odor keeps coming back after basic airing out or cleaning

• Damp laundry/pet beds sitting around

• Visible mold/mildew in showers or under sinks

• Buckled/rippled flooring or water spots that hint at leaks

• Basement mustiness, especially after rain

• Under‐sink smells or cabinet water buildup

Step-by-step

1. Start with a scan and sniff test: Open cabinets and closets; use a flashlight to spot damp wood, staining, or swelling.

2. Check under all sinks: Look for drips, wet P‑traps, or water rings. Dry thoroughly and scrub small growth with a mild bleach or vinegar solution. Repair any leaks or call a plumber.

3. Inspect showers and tub surrounds: If you find mold/mildew on grout or caulk, scrub and dry the area. If you’re concerned for your health, bring in an expert.

4. Clean odor‑prone appliances: Deodorize the garbage disposal and scrub the dishwasher filter—both can harbor moisture and odors.

5. Remove damp fabrics: Wash and dry sweaty gym clothes, towels, and pet beds; these can drive a house‑wide musty smell.

6. Look for water damage clues: Note buckled floors or wall stains; that can indicate a plumbing issue needing a pro.

7. Basement check: Hunt for leaks, window seepage, and pipe “sweating.” Wrap sweating pipes with foam pipe wrap and ensure any basement windows are well‑sealed.

Safety and pro tips

• Don’t ignore persistent odors: They often signal hidden moisture or mold; call a pro if the smell returns quickly.

• If you suspect black mold or larger areas, don’t DIY—call an expert.

• Never run ozone machines in occupied homes; only operate them when no people or pets are inside.

• Act fast on leaks: Quick fixes now prevent deeper odors later and make the rest of your “how to remove musty smell” plan actually stick.

3. Ventilate and dehumidify rooms to keep indoor humidity at 40–50%

Moisture in the air is the fuel for musty odors. Good airflow plus steady dehumidification breaks that cycle, dries materials, and helps stop mildew from taking hold. Aim to keep indoor humidity around 40–50% so rooms, carpets, and closets actually smell fresh—then stay that way.

What it is

This is a one‑two punch: ventilate to swap stale, damp air with fresh air, and dehumidify to pull excess moisture out of rooms. It includes opening windows and doors for cross‑breezes, using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, letting in sunlight (which can help reduce germs), and running a dehumidifier to maintain a dry, odor‑resistant baseline.

When to use it

Use ventilation and dehumidification any time spaces feel humid, smell musty, or after activities that add moisture (showers, cooking, laundry). It’s especially helpful in basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and closed‑up guest rooms where air sits still.

• Musty rooms after rain or high humidity

• Steamy bathrooms or laundry areas

• Basements with “damp” smell

• Closets packed tight with poor airflow

• Odor that returns after basic cleaning

Step-by-step

Start by exchanging the air, then keep the space dry so odors can’t rebound.

1. Air out the space: Open opposite windows/doors to create a cross‑draft and pull in fresh air.

2. Run exhaust fans: Use bath and kitchen fans during and after showers or cooking to vent moisture outdoors.

3. Let in sunlight: Open blinds/curtains; natural light can help reduce odor‑causing microbes on surfaces.

4. Set a dehumidifier: Place it in the dampest room, close windows/doors, and set it near 45–50% RH.

5. Keep air moving: Use ceiling or box fans to circulate air across damp surfaces and corners.

6. Dry fabrics fast: Hang towels and gym clothes to dry fully; don’t leave damp laundry in piles.

7. Recheck the source: If humidity won’t drop or smells persist, revisit leaks and condensation or call a pro.

Safety and pro tips

Ventilating and drying are safe, simple habits—just keep them consistent and tidy.

• Empty and clean dehumidifier tanks/filters so they don’t become odor sources themselves.

• Vent the dryer outdoors and avoid drying laundry inside small rooms without ventilation.

• Avoid ozone generators in occupied homes; never run them with people or pets inside.

• Insulate “sweating” pipes to cut condensation that keeps rooms humid and musty.

4. Deodorize carpets and rugs with baking soda and enzyme cleaners

Carpet fibers and padding hold onto damp, stale air, so even a dry room can smell musty if the rug is harboring odor. Before you jump to a full wash, start with dry deodorizing to pull smells out of the pile. Baking soda absorbs odors effectively, and enzyme cleaners break down organic sources like pet accidents—two simple tools that make “how to remove musty smell” a quick win.

What it is

A low‑moisture carpet refresh using odor‑absorbing baking soda across broad areas, plus targeted enzyme treatment on spots that came from pets, spills, or sweat. It’s ideal as a first pass before any wet or steam cleaning.

When to use it

Use this when rooms smell musty but carpets aren’t soaked, or after you’ve ventilated and lowered humidity. It’s especially effective for pet‑related smells, light mildew odors, and stale, closed‑up rooms. If the carpet feels squishy or you see water damage, skip to deep cleaning or call a pro.

• Mild to moderate mustiness

• Pet spots or organic odors

• Closed‑up guest rooms/basements

• Between professional cleanings

Step-by-step

1. Vacuum thoroughly: Go slow and hit edges and under furniture. Clean or change your vacuum filter so you’re not recirculating odors.

2. Apply baking soda generously: Sprinkle and brush it lightly into fibers. Let it sit at least 1 hour; overnight for stubborn smells.

3. Vacuum again (slow passes): Lift all powder to remove absorbed odors.

4. Spot treat with an enzyme cleaner: Blot fresh spots, apply per label, allow full dwell time, then blot and air‑dry. Run a fan and keep humidity near 40–50%.

5. Repeat if needed: Persistent odors may need a second round, then move to deep cleaning.

Safety and pro tips

• Avoid over‑wetting: Too much liquid drives moisture into padding and can worsen musty odors.

• Test first: Check any cleaner on an inconspicuous area, especially wool, sisal, jute, or antique rugs.

• Pet and kid safe: Keep baking soda and wet enzyme areas off‑limits until vacuumed and dry.

• Pair with dry air: Dehumidify while deodorizing so odors don’t rebound.

• If odors persist or you suspect hidden moisture, proceed to deep cleaning or call a certified local pro in Austin for inspection and structural drying.

5. Deep clean carpets with steam or hot water extraction

When dry methods can’t shake that stale odor, a deep rinse is the reset your carpet needs. Hot water extraction (“steam cleaning”) flushes fibers and padding, removes embedded soils and odor sources, and—paired with fast drying—can break the musty cycle for good.

What it is

A machine injects hot cleaning solution into the carpet, then immediately vacuums it out. You can rent a unit for DIY, but professional truck‑mounted systems extract more moisture, speed up drying, and are ideal when odors are persistent or rooms are large.

When to use it

Choose extraction after you’ve lowered humidity and tried baking soda/spot enzymes but the smell lingers. It’s also smart for pet accidents or spills that reached the pad. Skip DIY and call a pro if materials were soaked or you suspect hidden moisture.

• Musty odor returns after deodorizing

• Old pet spots or drink spills

• Closed‑up rooms/basements with stale carpet

• Not for delicate sisal/jute—check rug labels first

Step-by-step

Give the carpet a thorough clean, then dry it quickly so odors can’t rebound.

1. Prep and vacuum: Move light furniture; slow, overlapping vacuum passes.

2. Pre‑treat spots: Use an enzyme cleaner on pet/organic areas; allow dwell time.

3. Mix solution per label: Avoid over‑concentrating detergents.

4. Extract in sections: One slow wet pass, then 2–3 dry passes to pull moisture.

5. Rinse pass (optional): Plain hot water helps remove residual soap.

6. Speed‑dry: Run fans and a dehumidifier set near 45–50% RH; keep traffic off until fully dry.

Safety and pro tips

• Don’t over‑wet: Excess water drives odor deeper into the pad.

• Test colorfastness in a hidden spot before cleaning.

• Change/empty tanks often and clean machine filters so you’re not redepositing odors.

• If drying takes longer than a day or odor returns, call an IICRC‑certified pro (Austin homeowners can contact Water Damage Repair Tech) and avoid ozone machines in occupied spaces.

6. Wash and deodorize musty clothes and towels

Musty laundry usually means moisture lingered too long in the fibers. The fix is simple: pre‑neutralize the odor, wash with the right helpers, and dry completely so smells don’t bounce back. These steps work for everyday clothes, gym gear, and especially towels, which hold onto humidity and develop mildew odors quickly.

What it is

A washer‑friendly routine that targets odor molecules first, then launderers with baking soda and the hottest water safe for the fabric. Stubborn smells get an oxygen‑based soak. Sun‑drying helps finish the job.

When to use it

Use this any time laundry smells stale after storage, a missed dryer cycle, or humid weather. It’s ideal for towels, athletic wear, and items left in the washer too long.

• Musty shirts, jeans, and activewear

• Towels that smell sour after a few uses

• Clothes stored in damp closets or bins

Step-by-step

1. Sort musty items separately from fresh laundry.

2. Pre‑treat odor zones: mix 1 part white vinegar : 2 parts water, spray/soak for about 30 minutes, then rinse the garment thoroughly.

3. Wash with your regular detergent plus 1/2 cup baking soda. Select the hottest water and cycle safe for the fabric.

4. For lingering odors, soak in an oxygen‑based laundry additive for 1–6 hours, then rewash.

5. Dry completely. Hang outside in sunlight when possible—UV can help reduce odor‑causing microbes—or tumble dry to full dryness.

6. Don’t leave clean items in the washer; remove and dry promptly.

Safety and pro tips

• Check care tags and spot‑test on delicate fabrics; avoid vinegar on delicate fabrics or elastic.

• Don’t add vinegar directly to the washer routinely; it can be harsh on machines—rinse items after any vinegar pre‑treatment before washing.

• Towels respond best to a hot water cycle and an odor‑fighting detergent; dry thoroughly between uses.

• If smells persist after proper washing and drying, clean the washer (see next section) and repeat the oxygen‑based soak.

7. Clean and freshen your washer and dryer

If “clean” loads still smell musty, your laundry machines are likely the source. Washers stay damp and can grow mildew in the drum, gasket, and detergent drawer. A clogged or poorly vented dryer leaves items slightly wet—perfect conditions for odor to linger. A quick maintenance routine restores freshness and keeps it there.

What it is

A monthly (and post‑odor) deep clean of the washer and dryer: wipe and disinfect moisture traps, run a tub‑clean cycle with a washing‑machine cleaner or bleach, and clear lint/vents so laundry dries fully. Pair this with better airflow in the laundry area to help remove musty smell for good.

When to use it

Use this if clean laundry smells stale, the washer or gasket has a sour odor, loads take too long to dry, or your laundry room feels humid. It’s especially important after a missed dryer cycle, summer humidity, or anytime towels go sour fast.

Step-by-step

1. Washer prep: leave the door open between cycles to air out; remove and wash the detergent drawer.

2. Clean the gasket: pull it back, remove debris, then wipe with a mild bleach or vinegar solution; dry thoroughly.

3. Tub clean: run the washer’s Clean Cycle with a washing‑machine cleaner tablet or 1 cup bleach (never mix bleach and vinegar). Do this monthly.

4. Dispensers/drain: wipe dispensers; clean the drain pump/filter if your model has one.

5. Dry the drum: run a “dry drum/vent” option if available, or leave the door open to finish air‑drying.

6. Dryer basics: clean the lint screen every load; wash it with warm water if coated with fabric softener.

7. Venting: vacuum the lint cavity; inspect and clean the duct to the exterior and the outside hood. Straighten kinks and clear lint—aim for annual deep cleaning.

8. Ventless units: empty water tanks and clean the condenser per the manual.

9. Room conditions: run a dehumidifier and use exhaust/room fans to keep humidity near 40–50%.

Safety and pro tips

• Wear gloves with bleach; never mix bleach and vinegar. Rinse surfaces after disinfecting.

• Avoid routinely pouring vinegar into the washer; pre‑treated clothes should be rinsed before washing.

• Ensure the dryer exhausts outdoors; poor venting traps moisture and musty odors.

• If smells persist after proper machine cleaning and drying, you may have hidden moisture—Austin homeowners can call Water Damage Repair Tech for inspection and remediation.

8. Refresh furniture, upholstery, curtains, and mattresses

Soft surfaces act like sponges for humidity and odors, so even after you dry the room, musty smells can linger in cushions, drapes, and mattresses. The goal is to lift trapped dust, neutralize odor sources, and dry fast—without soaking materials. Here’s how to remove musty smell from these items safely.

What it is

A low‑moisture refresh protocol: vacuum thoroughly, deodorize with baking soda, spot‑treat odor sources (enzyme for organic spills; light vinegar‑water mist for general mustiness), launder what you can, and speed‑dry with fans/sunlight and a dehumidifier set near 40–50%.

When to use it

Use this after humidity spikes, closed‑up rooms, pet accidents, or when seating/curtains smell stale despite airing out. If fabrics were soaked, odors keep rebounding, or you see significant mold, call a certified pro.

Step-by-step

Start with ventilation and quick drying, then treat each surface.

• Prep the room: Open windows for cross‑breeze, let in sunlight, and run a dehumidifier at ~45–50% RH.

• Upholstery (fabric):

  • Vacuum thoroughly (crevice and upholstery tools).

  • Wash removable covers per care tag; add 1/2 cup baking soda to the wash and dry completely (sunlight helps).

  • For fixed cushions: Sprinkle baking soda, let sit 1–8 hours, then vacuum. Spot‑treat organic odors with an enzyme cleaner; for light mustiness, lightly mist a diluted white vinegar + water solution and blot. Don’t oversaturate.

• Leather furniture:

  • Dry wipe first, then lightly wipe with a diluted vinegar‑water cloth; immediately buff dry. Avoid heavy moisture.

• Wood case goods (musty smell):

  • Dehumidify, air, and brief sunlight exposure; wipe with a mild wood soap solution and dry.

• Curtains and drapes:

  • Launder per care tag; for stubborn odors, soak in an oxygen‑based additive for 1–6 hours, then wash and sun‑dry. For non‑washables, vacuum, then steam or air outdoors and use a fabric refresher.

• Mattresses:

  • Strip and wash bedding hot. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let sit several hours, then vacuum slowly. Spot‑treat stains with an enzyme cleaner; dry with fans and keep RH at 40–50% before remaking the bed.

Safety and pro tips

• Test in a hidden spot before using any cleaner; avoid over‑wetting foam or cushions.

• Dry fast: Fans + dehumidifier prevent odors from rebounding.

• Sunlight helps reduce microbes, but limit exposure on dyed fabrics/leather to avoid fading.

• Pet beds and throws often carry the odor—wash/dry them fully.

• Avoid ozone in occupied homes. If mustiness persists or you suspect hidden moisture, bring in a certified restoration pro.

9. Fix musty closets and storage areas

Closets and storage nooks trap humid air and stale odors, and tightly packed fabrics soak them up. The cure is a quick dry‑out, a light clean, then smarter storage so freshness lasts. Here’s how to remove musty smell from closets without spreading it back to your clothes.

What it is

A low‑moisture closet reset: air it out, dehumidify to about 40–50% RH, clean shelves and walls, launder musty items, and add odor absorbers and breathable storage so air can circulate. Consistent ventilation and light help keep odors from returning.

When to use it

Use this any time opening the door releases a stale puff of air, towels smell sour in the linen closet, or stored clothes pick up a “closed‑up” scent—especially after humid weather or if damp laundry/pet beds were parked inside.

Step-by-step

1. Empty and sort: Remove everything. Pull out damp laundry, towels, and pet beds and wash/dry them fully.

2. Air and dry the space: Open doors and nearby windows for cross‑breeze; let in sunlight. Run a dehumidifier and keep RH near 40–50%.

3. Clean hard surfaces: Vacuum dust. Wipe shelves, walls, and baseboards; scrub any light mildew with a mild bleach or vinegar solution, then dry thoroughly.

4. Launder musty fabrics: For clothes/towels, pre‑treat odor with 1 part white vinegar : 2 parts water, rinse, then wash with detergent + 1/2 cup baking soda on the warmest setting safe for the fabric. Sun‑dry when possible; otherwise, dry completely.

5. Deodorize floor coverings: If there’s carpet/rugs, sprinkle baking soda, let sit 1–8 hours, then vacuum; spot‑treat organic spills with an enzyme cleaner.

6. Improve storage habits:

   • Don’t overcrowd; allow airflow between hangers.

   • Avoid plastic bags; store only when items are fully dry.

   • Add odor/moisture absorbers: bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or silica gel packets; refresh regularly.

   • Use cedar blocks/hangers to help with moisture and odors.

   • Vent weekly: leave doors ajar or cycle fresh air through.

7. Check building leaks: In basements, ensure windows are well‑sealed and pipes aren’t “sweating”; wrap with foam pipe wrap if needed.

Safety and pro tips

• Avoid over‑wetting shelves, walls, or carpets; dry fast with fans and a dehumidifier.

• Never run ozone generators in occupied spaces; keep people and pets out if one is used.

• If odors persist, you see visible mold, or humidity won’t drop, there may be hidden moisture—call a certified pro for inspection and remediation.

• Prevent rebound: keep towels/clothes dry between uses and stick to a simple weekly ventilation routine.

10. Use safe air cleaning and odor adsorbers (HEPA/carbon, charcoal, avoid ozone)

Once you’ve fixed leaks and dried the space, the right air tools finish the job by clearing what’s left in the air and neutralizing lingering musty notes. Think true HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon for particles and odors, plus simple odor adsorbers like activated charcoal and baking soda. Skip ozone machines in occupied homes.

What it is

A safe, source‑control combo: a HEPA air purifier to capture airborne dust and spores and an activated carbon stage to adsorb musty odors, paired with passive odor absorbers (activated charcoal bags, bowls of baking soda). These help reduce residual mustiness after moisture is under control. An air purifier can also complement ventilation and a dehumidifier to keep the room consistently fresh.

When to use it

Deploy this after you’ve addressed moisture and cleaned surfaces/fabrics, or any time a room, basement, or closet smells stale despite being dry. It’s ideal for closed‑up spaces, pet areas, and rooms that rebound slightly after rainy spells. For persistent or strong odors that survive these steps, call a pro.

• Dry room still smells faintly musty

• Basements, laundry rooms, and closets

• After carpet/upholstery cleaning and dehumidifying

Step-by-step

1. Stabilize the space: ventilate briefly, then run a dehumidifier to hold ~40–50% RH.

2. Set up a HEPA + activated carbon air purifier sized to the room; place it with clear intake/exhaust and run it continuously at first.

3. Add odor adsorbers: place activated charcoal bags or small bowls of baking soda in closets, cabinets, near shoes, and other odor hot spots.

4. Refresh and maintain: replace purifier filters per the manual; swap baking soda and charcoal regularly so they keep working.

5. Quick neutralizer (optional): simmer white vinegar or lemon peels in water on the stove for ~20 minutes to help neutralize the surrounding air.

Safety and pro tips

• Choose “true HEPA” with activated carbon; avoid ozone‑generating units. Never run ozone while people or pets are inside.

• Air purifiers reduce airborne odor and particles; they don’t remove hidden mold—fix moisture first.

• Keep intakes clear and doors/windows mostly closed while purifying so you’re recirculating the room’s air.

• Change your home’s HVAC filters to improve circulation; stagnant air can stay smelly.

• If mustiness returns quickly, recheck for leaks/condensation or call an IICRC‑certified pro in Austin for inspection and remediation.

Conclusion

Musty smells don’t stand a chance when you tackle the source first, dry the space to 40–50% humidity, and then remove what’s trapped in carpets, fabrics, and the air. Use quick wins (baking soda, enzyme spot treatments, sun and airflow), follow with deep carpet extraction when needed, clean your washer/dryer, refresh upholstery and mattresses without over‑wetting, fix cramped closets, and finish with safe HEPA + carbon filtration—skip ozone in occupied homes.

If odors rebound, that’s your signal there’s hidden moisture or mold. Austin‑area homeowners can get fast, certified help to stop leaks, dry structures, and remediate properly. For 24/7 response and a free estimate, contact Water Damage Repair Tech. A fresh‑smelling home is possible—and it starts with drying the cause, not just masking the scent.