A damp, musty smell usually means moisture levels are too high. Even if you cannot see mould, the smell often comes from hidden moisture on surfaces, fabrics or walls.
Common causes
- Poor ventilation in winter.
- Drying laundry indoors.
- Condensation behind furniture.
- Damp carpets or bedding.
- Unheated rooms.
How to remove the smell
- Run a dehumidifier daily.
- Wash any damp fabrics.
- Ventilate for short bursts.
- Clean windows, sills and walls where moisture settles.
Once humidity drops below sixty percent, damp smells usually disappear completely.