The short answer
Find the Source First
Mold smell is a symptom, not the problem itself. The odor comes from active mold growth, which needs moisture to survive. If you simply mask the smell with air fresheners, the mold will keep growing and the smell will return. Start by locating the water source, whether it is a leaky pipe, a damp crawl space, or a roof leak.
Check common spots like under sinks, behind appliances, around windows, and in attics or bathrooms. After a heavy rain, also inspect your roof and foundation, since moisture can seep in from above or below. Use a flashlight and your nose to trace the strongest smell. Once you find the moisture, stop it with a plumber or roofer if needed.
Clean Non-Porous Surfaces
For hard surfaces like tile, glass, metal, and sealed wood, a simple cleaning solution can remove mold and its odor. Mix one part bleach with three parts water, or use a commercial mold cleaner. Wear gloves and a mask to avoid breathing in spores. Scrub the area well, then let it air dry completely.
Do not mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as that creates toxic fumes. After cleaning, wipe the surface with a dry cloth and run a fan to speed drying. If the smell persists on a hard surface, the mold may have penetrated the material, and replacement may be the only option.
- Wear gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask while cleaning mold.
- Open windows and doors for ventilation during and after cleaning.
- Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity below 50 percent.
- Discard porous items that cannot be washed, like cardboard boxes or upholstered furniture.
- Wash washable fabrics in hot water with detergent and a cup of white vinegar.
- Dry cleaned items in direct sunlight if possible, as UV light helps kill mold.
Remove Porous Materials
Porous materials absorb mold and its odor, and cleaning them often does not work. Drywall, ceiling tiles, carpet, padding, and insulation that have been wet for more than a day should be removed and replaced. Cutting out the affected sections is usually the most effective way to get rid of the smell.
When you remove these materials, bag them in thick plastic before carrying them out to avoid spreading spores. Also check the subfloor and framing behind the damaged drywall. If those are wet, they need thorough drying and possibly treatment with a mold-inhibiting primer before you rebuild.
Dry Everything Thoroughly
Mold cannot survive without moisture, so drying the area is critical. Use fans, open windows, and a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air and from building materials. Run the dehumidifier for several days, emptying the reservoir regularly. In a humid climate, a dehumidifier is especially useful during warm, wet months.
Pay attention to hidden pockets of moisture, such as behind baseboards, inside wall cavities, or under flooring. If you suspect moisture is trapped, a moisture meter can help identify wet spots. For larger areas, consider renting a commercial dehumidifier or calling in water damage pros for structural drying.
Know When to Call the Pros
If the mold smell is strong, covers a large area, or returns after cleaning, you may have hidden mold that requires professional help. Water damage pros have specialized equipment like moisture meters and HEPA vacuums to find and remove mold safely. They can also dry out structures that are hard to reach on your own.
Before hiring anyone, ask what their process involves and whether they will address the moisture source. Also check with your insurance company about coverage for mold damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. If you feel unwell from mold exposure, see a doctor.
- A persistent smell after cleaning often means mold is inside a wall or under flooring.
- Large areas of mold, over 10 square feet, may require professional remediation.
- If you have health issues like asthma or allergies, limit your own exposure and seek help.
- Ask the pros about their drying and cleaning methods before they start.
- Keep records of any water damage and cleanup for your insurance claim.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I just use bleach to get rid of mold smell?
Bleach works on hard, non-porous surfaces, but it does not penetrate porous materials like drywall or wood. For those, you need to remove the material or use a specialized mold cleaner. Bleach also does not fix the moisture problem, so the mold may return.
How long does it take to get rid of mold smell?
It depends on the extent of the mold and how quickly you dry the area. Small spots may improve within a day after cleaning and drying. Larger infestations or hidden mold can take several days or weeks to fully eliminate, especially if you need to remove and replace materials.
Is mold smell dangerous to breathe?
Inhaling mold spores can irritate your eyes, skin, and respiratory system, especially for people with allergies or asthma. If you notice symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or headaches, limit your exposure and see a doctor. Professional remediation may be needed for extensive mold.