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How to Get Musty Smells Out of Concrete

Concrete floors develop a musty odor from mold and mildew spores. The spores grow on and in the concrete because of moisture and damp conditions. Basement floors are especially prone to odor problems, but garages, porches and other areas with concrete can also develop a musty smell. Killing the spores removes the odors, but the smell will return if the floors aren't properly sealed. Sealing the concrete prevents moisture from entering the floor. The sealer also locks in any remaining stubborn odors emanating from the floors.

Things You'll Need

  • Chlorine bleach
  • Bucket
  • Abrasive pad or mop
  • Towel
  • Broom
  • Concrete sealer
  • Paint roller
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Instructions

    • 1

      Combine 1 cup chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of room-temperature water. Bleach kills mold and mildew spores, which cause the musty odor.

    • 2

      Scrub the concrete floor with the bleach solution, using a mildly abrasive pad. Use an abrasive sponge mop to scrub large areas.

    • 3

      Rinse the area with clear water. Soak up standing water with a towel.

    • 4

      Open the doors and windows in the room. Allow the concrete to dry completely.

    • 5

      Sweep the floor thoroughly to remove dirt.

    • 6

      Apply a concrete sealer with a paint roller attached to a long handle. Apply an even, thin coat of the sealer over the entire floor, then allow it to dry for 24 hours before walking on the floor. Sealer looks slightly milky upon application but dries clear.