How to Get a Fresher Basement

Basements often have a musty, damp smell. Moisture, lack of ventilation, mildew and old belongings packed in boxes all contribute to the odor. Molds that are harmful to your health can take hold in such conditions and lead to allergies, respiratory problems and headaches. Taking steps to freshen up your basement can not only improve the air quality, they can improve the healthiness of your home.

Chlorine bleach
Water
Bucket
Rags and mop
Carpet cleaner
Portable fan
Dehumidifier
Charcoal, cat litter or baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Clean out the basement. Throw out damaged, moldy or unusable items, and donate any belongings that are no longer wanted to a charity. Move furniture and other large items outside into the sun to air out.
- 2
  Mop cement floors and wash walls with a solution of 1/2 cup chlorine bleach in 1 gallon water. If your basement has carpet, clean it with a carpet cleaning machine. You can rent these at many grocery stores. Run a portable fan to ensure carpets dry completely.
- 3
  Check for any sources of moisture, such as leaking pipes, condensation or water leaking in from outside the basement walls. Have leaks fixed and pipes wrapped with insulation.
- 4
  Run a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
- 5
  Place a box of charcoal briquettes, cat litter or baking soda in the basement to help absorb lingering odors.

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