Natural Ways to Get a Musty Smell Out of a Closet

Natural Deodorizers

• Natural deodorizers include sachets of potpourri and aerated canisters containing aromatic blends. You can create your own sachets by stuffing muslin pouches with fresh lavender, eucalyptus leaves and other dried aromatic herbs. You can also obtain aerated canisters in craft and hobby supply stores to fill with scented talcum and gel beads. Place these natural deodorizers in the shelves or on the floor of your closet.

Ventilation

• Keep your closet well ventilated, especially during the winter months when your home is closed off from the outdoors. These cold seasons not only lead to making your home musty, but your closets suffer these effects as well. Keep your closet door open for a few hours a week with a fan running in the home to inspire air circulation. When the air circulates, it doesn't have a chance to get musty in the closet. Alternatively, you can remove the door of the closet and replace it with a hanging curtain — but that's only if it doesn't compromise the appearance of your home.

Deep Cleaning

• Deep cleaning the closet and removing any offending items lends to the removal of a musty smell. For instance, if you keep shoes in the closet, they can be creating the odor. Damp items tend to create odor, especially in closed-off areas like closets. Clean the closet and remove these items to get rid of the smell. Use natural cleaning materials like baking soda and vinegar, but not together, to combat the smell.

Preventative Routine

• Prevent your closet from developing a musty smell by creating a routine. Vacuum, dust or deodorize your closet at least once every two weeks to rid it of dust, mildew and odors. If you live in a humid climate, be sure to let the closet dry completely after cleaning it with moisturized products. Closing it before it's dry may hinder the point of cleaning it and keeping it fresh.