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How Do I Get Rid of Musty Smell in a House I Just Bought?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Find the Moisture Source

A musty smell almost always means moisture is present somewhere. Check common spots like basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, and around windows. Look for water stains, damp spots, or condensation on pipes.

Sometimes the source is hidden, like a slow leak behind drywall or under a subfloor. If you cannot locate the moisture, consider a professional water damage inspection. They use tools to detect dampness without tearing open your walls. Look for musty odors near baseboards, around vents, or in closets, as these can indicate hidden dampness.

Dry Out the Affected Areas

Once you find the damp area, dry it as quickly as possible. Open windows, use fans, and run a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. In humid climates like Burnsville's, dehumidifiers work well to lower indoor humidity.

For larger or hidden moisture, structural drying may be needed. This involves specialized equipment to dry out walls, floors, and framing. The pros can assess if this is necessary and set up the right approach. In humid climates, dehumidifiers work well to lower indoor humidity, but they are not a substitute for removing the source.

  • Use a dehumidifier in the dampest rooms
  • Run fans to increase airflow
  • Open windows when outdoor humidity is low
  • Remove wet carpets, padding, or drywall
  • Wipe down surfaces to prevent mold growth

Remove Water-Damaged Materials

Porous materials that stay wet can hold the musty odor. Carpet, padding, drywall, and insulation may need to be removed if they were soaked. Even after drying, they can trap mold spores and smells.

If you notice mold growth, take care. Wear gloves and a mask, and avoid stirring up spores. For extensive mold, a mold professional should handle the cleanup to protect your health. Even if you dry the area, porous materials can retain odors, so removal is often the surest way to eliminate the musty smell.

Clean and Neutralize Odors

After drying and removing damaged items, clean hard surfaces with a mild detergent. You can also use a mixture of water and white vinegar to help neutralize odors. Avoid harsh chemicals that might mask the smell without fixing the cause.

For persistent odors, an ozone generator or professional odor control service may help. These treatments break down odor molecules, but they only work if the moisture problem is solved first. You can also try baking soda in open containers to absorb mild odors while the area dries.

Prevent Future Moisture Problems

Once the smell is gone, keep it from returning. Fix any leaks in plumbing or roofing, improve drainage around your foundation, and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Regularly check for signs of dampness.

If you live in Burnsville, be mindful of seasonal humidity changes. A dehumidifier in the basement during summer can help. Also, consider a moisture barrier in crawl spaces or basements to block ground moisture. Regularly check for signs of dampness, such as condensation on windows or a musty smell after rain.

  • Fix leaky pipes or roof issues promptly
  • Keep gutters and downspouts clear
  • Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering
  • Monitor humidity with a hygrometer
  • Seal foundation cracks to reduce water entry

Talk to someone now

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I just paint over the musty smell?

Painting over a musty wall rarely works. The odor comes from moisture and mold behind the surface. First, find and fix the moisture source, then remove any moldy material. After the area is dry and clean, you can repaint, but the smell will return if the cause remains.

Is a musty smell a sign of mold?

Often, yes. Mold grows in damp places and produces a musty odor. If you smell it, mold is likely present somewhere. You might not see it if it is behind walls or under flooring. A water damage inspection can help locate hidden mold and moisture.

How long does it take to get rid of a musty smell?

It depends on the source and extent of moisture. Small areas might dry in a few days with good airflow. Larger issues, like soaked subfloors or walls, can take longer. The key is to remove the moisture source and dry everything thoroughly. Persistence is important.

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