There are several ways to eliminate the musty smell and the best, with homemade recipes and, above all, without spending a lot.
Mold is much more common than we think, and it can certainly happen anywhere. Therefore, we must always be careful but if it happens, there is no reason to panic, as there are different ways and tips to eliminate not only it, but also the musty smell.
Basically, what causes this problem is the proliferation of fungi, especially in hot and humid environments, places that are more than suitable for them to settle and reproduce. Although the musty smell is strong and quite uncomfortable, it can also be a health problem, especially for those with respiratory problems.
Therefore, Área de Mulher has put together for you the best tips and homemade recipes so that you can eliminate the musty smell from your home once and for all.
What is the origin of the musty smell?
To be able to eliminate mold, you also need to know where the problem came from. This way, you can also prevent it from happening again. Generally, these fungi and bacteria cluster in damp, poorly ventilated places.
It is common to find mold inside wardrobes, especially in areas that are rarely used such as luggage racks and high shelves, or in damp places such as the bathroom and laundry room.
If you can’t find it in these places, look behind furniture or in higher places.
Avoid mofos
To prevent mold, it is recommended that the room is always ventilated and never leaves things wet for a long time. Another tip is to place chalk in the corners of the rooms, as it helps to retain the accumulation of moisture. Furthermore, always give preference to waterproofing paints or use anti-mold paints to avoid humidity and stains on the walls.
In fact, it is also important to observe whether there are leaks and infiltrations. And of course, hygiene is essential, so clean your cupboards frequently and have a house cleaning routine.
How to clean and remove mold
On the wall
To remove mold from walls, we use the same ingredients as on furniture. First make the solution, but this time, add it to a spray bottle. Then apply it to the mold stains on the wall and leave it to act for 20 minutes. Then repeat the operation. Finally, to finish, wipe the wall with a clean cloth.
In furniture
As it is a fungus, to clean mold stains from furniture, for example, you need a solution of alcohol, vinegar or bleach and water.
- 100ml of bleach;
- 1 liter of water;
- 1 cloth to wet;
- 1 dry cloth.
In a bucket, add bleach to the water and dip the cloth in this solution to clean stained spots on walls, tiles and furniture. Then dry with the other cloth. If the stains are difficult, repeat the operation with a soft sponge.
In fabrics
In the case of fabrics, it is a little more complicated to remove mold stains. This is because using bleach can cause damage to clothes. Therefore, opt for specific products or use white vinegar.
In the case of clothes, you can use the following homemade recipe:
- mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda;
- 1 tablespoon of salt for each liter of water;
- 1 cup of fabric softener;
- 1 cup of alcohol tea;
- 1 liter of water.
Boil the clothes in this solution for about 1 hour, rinse well under cold running water and dry them normally. Mix fabric softener and alcohol in 1 liter of water. Now apply this solution with a spray bottle to the clothes before ironing them. Let it dry completely before putting the clothes away.
In mattresses
If your mattress ends up moldy, sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. However, you need to wait for at least 30 minutes to pass. Therefore, just vacuum it with a vacuum cleaner and the fungi and bad smell will be gone.
How to get rid of the musty smell
Sometimes, even after we have eliminated the problem, the musty smell is still there. Therefore, to completely eliminate this bad smell you will need:
- 1 liter of alcohol
- 650g cloves
To prepare, mix the alcohol and cloves and let it rest for 24 hours. In addition to having antifungal properties, cloves also perfume the environment. Use this mixture in a spray bottle and apply it inside the cabinets to remove the stale smell.
However, be careful when applying! If you are going to use it in your wardrobe, wait for it to dry well before storing objects. This is because cloves release a dark color that can stain your clothes.
You can also scatter sachets made of tulle or TNT with carnations inside or even cedar wood balls in the room. Cedar balls eliminate bad odors and absorb moisture.
Another excellent tip is to use white vinegar. Especially if it is indoors or inside furniture. To do this, place a container of white vinegar inside the cupboard and leave it overnight. The next day, wipe the entire piece of furniture with a cloth dampened with water and wait for it to dry well before putting the items away.
How to make a homemade anti-mold
Typically, anti-mold products are based on calcium chloride. This chemical absorbs moisture from the environment. However, it is possible to prepare this type of product at home with the following materials:
- Plastic cups, one larger than the other so they stay in place (you can use yogurt pots, disposable cups and even reuse anti-mold packaging purchased on the market);
- Powdered or granulated calcium chloride (can be found in chemical stores);
- Paper filter for straining coffee;
- Needle, pin or other piercing object;
- Elastic bands for tying;
Firstly, you will need to make holes in the bottom of the smaller pot and fill it with calcium chloride. Fit it into the larger pot so that there is an empty space at the bottom. Subsequently, it is in this space that water from ambient humidity will accumulate.
Therefore, place a piece of paper filter on top and tie it around it with an elastic band. Your anti-mold is ready.
On the other hand, if you want to reuse one that was purchased at the market, open and disassemble the entire packaging. So, throw what’s left of the granulated chloride in the trash and throw away the water accumulated at the bottom. Avoid contact with this water.
Reassemble the packaging, fill it with calcium chloride and place a piece of paper filter over it, tying it with an elastic band. It’s ready to use!
After all, did you like this article? Read also: Get rid of ants – What to do and how to prevent their appearance.
Sources: decorfacil, Dicasdemulher, vivadecora.
Featured image: politintas
