The basement of any home tends to accumulates musty smell for many reasons. But moisture gathers up there easily because of its position at the bottom of the home. This situation can be remedied by getting the best air freshener for musty basement. As antique as it may sounds, the quality and effect of air fresheners in general never get old, and it is a sure way to deodorize the basement.
Even finished basement smells musty sometimes, making the area irritable, and overtime causing woods in the basement to also carry the same musty smell. The basement smells musty in summer especially, when there is no shortage of the humidity supplied by the atmosphere.
From experience, we can say that homemade basement odor eliminators would work wonders, but only to a certain level. Most people complain of musty smell in the basement after rain. This is not uncommon due to the inconsiderate construction of the basement as well as its position. You shouldn’t be surprised by this aftermath effect of rain since the walls are good conductors of water which could even make it flooded.
A good quality deodorizer, on the other hand, is sure to rid the atmosphere of that musty smell. In good quality, we mean the breath green plug and pure odor eliminator. With the absence of filters, this product makes use of negative ions for attracting positively charged particle contaminants. It is also noiseless while having a very beautiful design that is pleasing to the eyes, but sadly, would go to waste in a basement.
Here is Why your finished basement smell musty?
The major reason why even a finished basement would smell musty is due to having a high level of moisture content. Over time, this moist diffuse into wooden materials, causing them to carry a natural musty smell regardless of the immediate level of moisture in the air.
Being a basement, there are several ways through which moisture can get into the atmosphere, and a very common way is water leakages. Basements are positioned lower than sea level in the home, which makes it susceptible to water soaking from external environs, as well as dripping water from up above the home.
A situation whereby the basement has poor ventilation also contributes to the accumulation of moisture, and in turn, musty odors too. Other musty smell causing factors includes having items like fiberglass insulation, and organic compounds of any kind (like fertilizers).
It is however advisable that you should consider using the best dehumidifier for basement alongside your air freshener. Therefore, We have reviewed odor eliminator above ordinary air fresheners.
Is a musty smell actually dangerous?
The smell in itself is not actually dangerous, but the causative agents are. This means that although no direct harm can be said to come from moisty smells because they are caused by humidity problems that breed molds, living in musty odor areas could be dangerous.
Humidity problems in an area are always characterized by musty smells, and also the development of molds. These molds release spores into the atmosphere, which, when inhaled, could cause all sorts of damages to the body.
Some of the dangers of inhaling mold-infested air include sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash, and chronic stage shortness of breath or respiratory infections. In a lump sum, living in musty areas is dangerous and should be dealt with as soon as possible.
Does musty smell mean mold
Yes, the musty smell means mold is laying around not too far away. The word musty is even a variant of moisty, moist or damp when etymology is considered, and since all these are directly or indirectly related to mold, so is the word musty, and consequentially musty smell. This smell is found in areas where high humidity is predominant, and in these areas, so is mold growth.
Top 5 Best air fresher for musty basement
1) Breathe Green Plug N’ Pure Odor Eliminator
[image code=”B07V25DLDG”]
- Negative ions
Conventional odor eliminators, usually make use of filter through which it forces air, but not this one. It simply harnesses the power of negative ions instead. Negative ions are generated and released into the atmosphere, bonding with contaminants (which are positively charged), dragging off the air as a result. This gives leaves the air completely clean and smelling refreshed.
- Low energy consumption and noise level
Since electrically powered, the breath green product is designed not to consume much power. It is outrightly energy efficient, and wouldn’t cause a significant raise from your usual energy bill range. The fact that it doesn’t move air literally to clean it means that it produces next to no noise while in operation. In fact, without the visible lights, one might not think it works.
- Sleek design and Filter-less
The looks of this product are very good, and decorative in every way, but as said earlier, its sadly going to waste in a basement. This, however, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t give the manufacturers credit. It also filterless, eliminating any form of regular cleaning, or expenses on filter replacements.
Pros:
- uses negative ions which makes it effective against a wide array of pollutants including dust and smoke,
- operates at a low noise level while consuming very little energy,
- seek and modern looking beautiful design,
- absence of filters means it doesn’t need to be cleaned or require regular filter replacement,
- the product also doubles as a source of night light,
- operates very quietly,
Cons:
- lack of instructional manual could make it difficult to operate;
- it is more effective in medium enclosed basements.
Note: Sliding the switch at the bottom of the unit to the first position turns on the lights only, while the second position powers both the lights and ionizing function. The third position keeps the ionizer running without the lights.
Warranty
- It comes with a 100% money-back guarantee for the first 90 days, with no questions asked.
2) Breathe Green Plug N’ Pure Odor Eliminator
[image code=”B086Q4FNP4″]
- Good design
The cone-like design, with all-round curved edges of this product, gives it a very impressive look that easily fits into decorations. There are also lightings present at the middle and top side of the device, adding a much-fancied night light that comes in handy just in case you need to find your way to the basement at night.
- Ionizer
Just like the earlier model, this breathes green odor eliminator also employs the technology of ionizers, to get the cleaning job done. It also generates and releases negative ions, which bonds with positive ones to remove the smell, causing molecules in the atmosphere.
- Low noise level
The product is completely silent, too, not releasing any form of noise while in operation. It doesn’t move air to get it cleaned, therefore it has no fan (generates most of the noise). If not careful, one can easily forget it is on. This clean performance means it can easily be used in other areas of the home, too, like the bedroom.
- Filterless
Ionizer air freshner does not make use of filters or any other cleaning medium, asides negative ions. In the real sense, they give out to the atmosphere to get it cleaned up. This means you can wave goodbye to regular cleaning maintenance, as well as having to purchase a replacement filter after a certain period of time.
Pros:
- low noise operation,
- effective against a wide array of pollutants,
- impressive sleek design,
Cons:
- only effective in small-sized areas.
Warranty
- Breath Green offers a 90 day no questions asked 100% refund for this product.
3) Hamilton Beach TrueAir Room Odor Eliminator
[image code=”B002SHCEVG”]
- Carbon filter and scent pad
This air freshener takes a different turn in design, compared to the breathe green products. In their design, ionizer technology was ditched for a more traditional air forced through the filter cleaning method.
The device is run by a silent fan, which draws in air from the atmosphere, forcing it through carbon filters in order to remove contaminations contained within, after which it is released into the air. This process is repeated over and over again till there is little or nothing left to be smelt in the air.
There is also an option of using meadow scent pad cartridges to add a bit of good odor to the air, as the musty one is removed.
- 3-way air intake
The boxed shaped design of this unit allows it to extract air from the atmosphere from three different sides. Each of these sides has a carbon filter of its own too, which is why although the unit has three filters, the air is not exactly filtered three times in a cycle. This multidirectional intake, however, allows the unit to move more air per minute, making a faster impact on the atmosphere as a result.
- Energy efficient
From user experience, energy bills before and after running this product for a whole month are more or less the same. In quantifiable measures, it consumes lesser energy than a 15 watt light bulb, which makes it a good fit for use in basements, where it might have to run round the clock, especially during summer.
- Noise level
Due to the presence of a fan, this device generates audible noise, which, although it is not overly loud, can still be heard without much focus, from a distance. This leaves the noise level down to each individual, as the more sensitive ears would call it noisy, and the less would tag it audible but quiet.
Pros:
- The presence of 3 carbon filters makes it very effective in removing odors from the air,
- optional meadow cartridge adds a bit of fresh scent to the air,
- possessing filters means it actually removes pollutant molecules from the air,
- product filters last about three months and comes with replacement indicators,
- very energy efficient and pulls air from 3-way air intake for faster impact,
Cons:
- occasional filter replacement means a higher running cost,
- the scent pads do not last very long,
Warranty
- It comes with a one year warranty.
4) Renuzit Snuggle Solid Gel Air Freshener
[image code=”B07MPFZLNF”]
- Purely Air Freshener
Contrary to all other reviewed products so far, this Renuzit product is actually a true air freshener. Freshener in the sense that it releases pleasant scent into the atmosphere to enhance the already existing musty odor. The scent produced by this product can be characterized to smell like laundry, which is very clean and as fresh as it gets.
Although it makes a telling impact on the atmosphere within a considerable amount of time, it doesn’t exactly remove the musty odor, but simply masks it. This means, just like every air freshener, you have to keep the scent coming or risk going back to what the room formally smelt like.
- Cheap and biodegradable
Contained in the bottle, are tiny beads, made of 98% biodegradable materials, which follows a natural cycle of dispersal as soon as it is exposed to the atmosphere. To use this product, all you have to do is tear and twist the cover to open. At just slightly over $10 and contains 12 pieces in the purchase package, this product is really very cheap and an investment that is worth every penny.
- Long life and lasting
The life span of each product is impressively 1 to 2 months. This time varies depending on the degree of usage, as well as how much exposure it has to the atmosphere. The container has 3 degrees to which it can be opened, with 3 being the highest exposure, and would, therefore, release more scent, but also make the pack last less than a month. Leaving it on one makes it last the most, up to 2 months, while two would be somewhere around a month.
Do note that this product does not do well in high temperatures, where it would dry up much faster than it should. The scent is not too strong also, making it suitable only for very small and enclosed areas.
Pros:
- produces a peculiar snuggle fresh laundry scent,
- very suitable for continuous air freshening,
- consisting of 98% biodegradable gel for natural dispersal,
- the cone is adjustable to fit desired fragrance level,
- 12 packs in the package put the price in cheap range,
- each pack has a good life span of up to 2 months (maximum) or much less depending on usage,
Cons:
- being a pure air freshener means it does not eliminate smell.
- They dry out much faster when used in place with high temperature,
- the scent being pretty weak makes the product suited to very small enclosed basements for maximum effectiveness
5) Gonzo Odor Eliminator
[image code=”B0061UMTVG”]
- Odor absorbing Nontoxic material
The design of this product is simply a bunch of rocks, sealed together in a packet. These rocks, however, have special properties, which enables them to absorb odors and foul smell from the atmosphere.
They are also completely not toxic in any way; neither do they contain scent, fragrance, or chemicals that could be harmful to the environment and people too. This means it can be used around children and pets without concerns for safety.
- Long life and rechargeable
Another amazing feature of this product is that they are rechargeable and have a very long life span. After strategically placing around the home, the odor eliminators should be allowed to do their job, which can last up to 6 months before a recharge is required.
Simply recharge by placing in the sun for 6 hours. After recharging, a position once again to continue the job. This cycle lasts for about two years, after which purchasing another becomes necessary.
Due to their nature, and small size, the odor eliminator is the best place in confined spaces, and as close as possible to the smell’s source. It becomes virtually infective larger basements, and over time too, there is a high chance of leaving white chalky film stains on the surface it is used. Do well to not place it on any fancy stuff as a result.
Pros:
- chemical-free material makes it completely safe to use around kids and pets,
- long life keeps it running up to 6 months before a recharge is needed,
- contains nontoxic mineral rocks for raping and destroying odors,
- it can be used for up to 2 years before replacement is necessary,
Cons:
- more effective in small closed basements,
- the rocks leave a chalky white film on surfaces over time,
5 Qualities to consider in choosing the best air freshener for musty basement
- Deodorizing technology:
The technology applied by the product for basement cleaning, goes far in telling how effective they would be. There are also several advantages and disadvantages to the different cleaning technologies employed. Ionizer, for example, is effective over a wide area and also requires zero cleanings or maintenance, with low running costs.
Products that make use of filters have a higher running cost are noisier, but also more effective and impacts the atmosphere in a short period of time. Ordinary air fresheners simply mask odors in the air, and absorbent materials draw and retain smells.
They both cover very small areas compared to the others. We recommend using ionizers or filter using products, and if you would settle for ordinary air fresheners and absorbent products, use more than one strategically located in different areas to be effective.
- Air cleaners over just fresheners:
ordinary fresheners only produce a scent that fills the air, causing it to smell much better, and in the long run subduing the previous musty odor. Air cleaners, on the other hand, tackles the odor, eliminating it rather than simply masking it. We strongly recommend you purchase air cleaners only, for maximum odor removal.
- Ease of use:
From the plug and leave nature of breath green, to simply laying on the floor of gonzo odor eliminator, air fresheners in basements should be very easy to use, and able to work without constant user supervision.
- Life span and maintenance:
Regardless of what type you decide to settle for, it should have a considerable life span, since it would most certainly be running round the clock. Maintenance activities also include cleaning and frequent checkups to ensure effective working conditions.
We can assure you that you would most certainly have a better overall user experience when the product has a long lifespan and also requires little maintenance.
How do you get rid of a musty smell in the basement?
There are several ways that come together hand in hand in order to get rid of the musty smell. The trick is to target moisture too, not just the musty smell because if the smell is dealt with only, it would simply be a matter of time before moisture problems cause the environment to smell musty again. For the sake of this article, however, we would be focusing on getting rid of the musty smell only.
The best way to get this done is to firstly create proper ventilation in the basement. This would aid airflow, ensuring exchange between the external atmosphere and that of the basement.
Also, trace and seal every area from leakages, because stopping water from getting into the basement would greatly reduce its humidity content. Finally, purchase and run a good capacity air freshener for the purpose of removing already existing smell from the air.
My basement dry but still smells musty – What you should do to eliminate musty odour
Having a dry basement doesn’t mean the humidity is also low, as they are completely two separate entities. Although there is a relationship with high humidity and a predominantly wet area, dry environs could also have Hugh humidity content in the air, and the only way to know is to measure using a hygrometer.
In a situation where the basement is dry, but still smells musty, try reducing its relative humidity. Also, there is a chance that the wooden materials have absorbed enough moisture to smell musty always. Therefore you should dry them too.
Finish the process by getting rid of organic materials that surely carries musty smells, and install a very good air freshener to tackle the odor. If it still persists after all these, then you should consider inviting a professional to come to take a look.
Final thoughts on the Best air freshener for Musty Basement
Breathe Green Plug N’ Pure Odor Eliminator B07V25DLDG is the best air freshener for your musty bathroom. Employing the services of an ionizer, this product is able to run without the use of filters, require frequent maintenance or consuming much energy. All you need to do is plug and forget it was ever there. It is also able to serve a considerable size of the basement (more than other products), although still best in medium-sized ones.
Breathe Green Plug N’ Pure Odor Eliminator B086Q4FNP4 is a close competitor to the B07V25DLDG. It employs ionizing technology too, giving it the earlier described benefits, but is only able to cover smaller areas.