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I’m a long-time cleaning expert with over 13 years of experience. You can trust me when I say I’ve tackled all sorts of cleaning problems, but the one that seems to persist across homes is that of lingering basement odors.
The best basement odor eliminators at a glance
Find more details about these odor eliminators below.
I know firsthand how an unpleasant smell wafting up from the basement can make a beautiful house feel less like home. But don’t worry; I’m here to help you banish those pesky odors.
Basement odors are a common issue that many homeowners face. They’re caused by various factors, such as mildew, dampness, poor ventilation, and even pest infestations. Unfortunately, these smells don’t just stay confined to your basement—they can seep into your living spaces, making the entire home smell unpleasant.
This post’ll delve into some of the best basement odor eliminators available in the market, tools I have personally tested and vetted throughout my years of cleaning expertise. So, whether you’re a new homeowner trying to deal with an inherited smell or a seasoned one looking for new solutions, this guide is for you.
Common Causes of Basement Odors
Due to their typically below-ground nature and infrequent use, basements are prone to various issues that can lead to unpleasant odors. Understanding these common causes can help us address the problem more effectively.
1. Mildew/Mold
Being mostly underground, basements are often damp and dark, perfect conditions for mold and mildew to thrive. These fungi not only cause a musty smell but can also pose health risks.
2. Dampness
Moisture is a prevalent issue in basements. Excess moisture can contribute to a persistently musty smell, whether it’s due to poor waterproofing, leaks, or high humidity.
3. Pest Infestation
Pests like rodents and insects often find their way into basements. They leave behind droppings and other debris that can cause odors. In some cases, deceased pests may also be the source of a foul smell.
4. Poor Ventilation
Without proper ventilation, the air in the basement becomes stagnant. This lack of air circulation allows odors to build up over time, contributing to a persistently smelly basement.
5. Sewer Problems
If your basement has a bathroom or laundry area, sewer issues can lead to a strong, unpleasant odor. Even without these features, cracks in sewer lines can cause sewer gases to leak into your basement.
Being a seasoned homeowner and cleaning expert with over a decade of experience, I’ve come across all these issues more times than I can count.
The Best Basement Odor Eliminators
The purpose of using a basement odor eliminator is to get rid of the smell and improve the air quality. This is also why ingredients matter; some odor eliminators might contain ingredients that might be toxic to the environment; so, to help you find the right products, our tester researched and picked the seven best basement odor eliminators.
1. Clorox Disinfecting Mist
Clorox disinfecting mist is formulated to act as a multisurface cleaner and sanitizing mist. It is known to kill bacteria and viruses, which is one of the reasons it has earned a top spot on our list. This can be used as a disinfecting spray on places you can always find bacteria, such as the kitchen trash can, bathroom toilet, and your pet’s toys and bedding.
Its ability to eliminate annoying odor in your basement made it a highly recommended option. Based on the test done, its lemon orange blossom scent covers the whole environment without being too overpowering.
It also evenly covers surfaces without making them overly wet, which would be great for balancing moisture in your basement.
This mist spray is tough on germs but safe to use on surfaces around your home. Since it’s a mist, we recommend not spraying a large quantity in a particular area while using it in the basement to avoid moisture accumulation.
2. Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag
The next best basement odor elimination that was tested and approved is the Moso natural air purifying bag. This is a scent-free odor eliminator and there is so much we love about this natural odor eliminator.
This is quite versatile, and effective and would cover a decent amount of your basement area. Also, it is discovered that it contains bamboo-activated carbon that happens to act as an odor eater.
Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag is one of the most highly recommended basement odor eliminators. The activated carbon efficiently eliminates unpleasant smells and can freshen the air in your bathroom, car, and smaller spaces. You can place this odor eliminator nearly anywhere; compared to other products, it is aesthetically pleasing.
To rejuvenate the charcoal, it does require that you place it in the sun for one hour per month but it is a user-friendly option worthy of the investment for your basement.
3. Febreze Odor-Fighting Fabric Refresher
Febreze Odor Fighting Fabric Refresher is an excellent choice when you need to freshen your upholstered sofa or chairs. It’s also a great choice for fabrics and comes in a generously sized spray bottle that works remarkably well and is user-friendly. This is one of the most affordable odor eliminators we tested and in addition, it has a patent on its odor-eliminating technology.
This is not only suitable for use in the basement, it is a versatile product that can be used to freshen up hampers, drawers, closets, carpets, and rugs, it works by neutralizing acidic and alkaline particles (stinky ones) through chemical reaction so it does not simply mask unpleasant odors, it neutralizes them.
Febreze Refresher has a pleasant scent but also intense, so take note that just a few sprays can overwhelm the room with fragrance. But it’s a highly recommended budget-friendly choice for eliminating odor in your basements and fabric upholstery.
4. Poo-Pourri Lavender Vanilla Scent
Poo Pouri has a name that will surely make anyone who comes across it chuckle. It is designed to eliminate the strong stink that can come from your bathroom and toilet; thanks to its clever concept and the highly effective all-natural formula, it is perfect for removing odor in your basement as well.
You only need a spritz or two to eliminate any bad odor, it uses essential oil to prevent smells from escaping the toilet bowl.
The bottle is also beautiful and it lets you seamlessly slip it in among a collection of cosmetic products. It’s a cute toilet sprat that has gained popularity over the years, and there are so many lovely reviews about it.
This is a perfect basement and toilet odor eliminator, and it smells great, and the lavender vanilla option is our favorite. The directions for using it are right on the bottle but not intuitive. However, it’s a reasonably priced odor eliminator you will love.
5. Arm And Hammer Moisture Absorber And Odor Eliminator
Looking for a convenient and effective basement odor eliminator that works for the closets as well? Arm And Hammer are one that our tester found to be perfect for attracting and trapping excess moisture from damp spaces such as the basement and the closet.
It works effectively in removing stubborn smells due to its high surface area.
This comes in various options, and I personally found this baking soda freshness suitable and absorbing unpleasant smells and mildew-causing moisture. Instead of powder like most odor eliminator, it comes in the form of tiny beads which spills out from the top when you tilt it lightly.
Arm and Hammer Moisture Absorber and Odor Eliminator is one of my favorites as the beads tend to last for 60 days before it hardens. You must keep it out of the reach of children or pets. Have it placed high up on a shelf or anywhere you can’t easily knock it over.
6. Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel
Need a natural plant-based odor eliminator? Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel removes odors and moisture without any harsh chemicals. It’s an all-purpose deodorizer that you can use around the house, it’s an odor-eliminating gel that is user-friendly and straightforward.
This easily covers a large area and according to our testers, it is versatile, and although the scent is strong at first, it gradually fades.
Fresh Wave is a suitable odor eliminator that does what it claims. It contains natural ingredients, which our tester love, but the specific ingredient components are a bit of a mystery, so you have to go to the brand website to see what exactly is in it.
In addition, it is very straightforward to use, unscrew the lid and peel off the seal. Then put the top back on and place it near the smell. It can be placed in any room, car, trash, garage, kitchen, pet area, and more.
7. Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bag
Bamboo Charcoal air Purifying bag is another one that graces our list of best basement odor eliminators. It is made of activated fresh charcoal, making it a natural deodorizer that can dehumidify the air, making mold and mildew disappear.
Our tester found this perfect as it has no scent so you can comfortably use it around pets and children.
Whether you choose to keep it in the cabinets, drawers, or anywhere around the house, it will keep things smelling fresh and clean. It absorbs smells and dehumidifiers to prevent mildew and mold buildup. These packs are also perfect on the go and in the car.
Not only is it perfect for damp basements but it improves the air around the house as well.
This is a favorite go-to for many homeowners looking to keep the air around their homes fresh. This can last over two years, making it one of the cheapest odor eliminators for musty basements.
Problems Associated with Basement Odors
While a smelly basement can certainly be unpleasant, the problems associated with these odors go beyond mere discomfort. They can have significant impacts that are worth addressing promptly.
1. Health Issues
Persistent odors often point to conditions that can affect health. Mold and mildew, for instance, produce allergens that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Pests can carry diseases. Even the dampness that often contributes to basement odors can exacerbate respiratory problems.
2. Lowered Property Value
If you’re considering selling your home, a smelly basement can be a turn-off for potential buyers. Even if it’s not a deal-breaker, it could lead to lower offers. Addressing basement odors can help ensure you get the best possible price for your property.
3. Unpleasant Living Environment
Beyond the tangible impacts, a smelly basement can make your home less enjoyable to live in. It can make it difficult to use the space effectively, whether you want to use it as a game room, storage, or even just a laundry room.
To solve these problems, an effective odor eliminator is a must.
The Role of Odor Eliminators
Having spent more than 13 years tackling various cleaning challenges, I’ve realized the immense role of effective odor eliminators in maintaining a pleasant home environment. These aren’t just fancy air fresheners; they do more than merely mask the smells.
Odor eliminators work by neutralizing the offending smells at their source. They do this in several ways. Some use enzymes or bacteria that break down the organic material causing the odor.
Others use absorbents like activated charcoal to trap odor particles. There are also chemical odor eliminators that neutralize smells through a chemical reaction.
Choosing The Right Basement Odor Eliminator
Choosing the right odor eliminator is critical to tackle your basement smell effectively. Not all odor eliminators are created equal—some are better at handling certain types of smells than others.
For instance, an eliminator that works well for pet odors might not be as effective against musty smells caused by mold and mildew.
When it comes to selecting an odor eliminator for your basement, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Several factors can influence the effectiveness of an odor eliminator. As a cleaning expert with over 13 years of experience, I recommend considering the following aspects:
- Size of the Area: The size of your basement can determine the quantity and type of odor eliminator you need. Larger spaces may require more product or a more potent solution to effectively remove odors.
- Cause of the Odor: The source of the odor will also influence the type of odor eliminator you need. For instance, odors caused by mold and mildew might require a different product than odors caused by pests or sewer issues.
- Ingredients/Safety: Look at what the odor eliminator is made of. Some products use harsh chemicals that can be harmful if you have pets or small children. Opt for non-toxic and eco-friendly options when possible.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easy the product is to use. Do you leave it in the basement, or does it require you to clean or scrub the area? Choose a product that fits your willingness and ability to do the work.
- Price: While you shouldn’t skimp on quality, the price is always a consideration. Look for a product that offers a good balance of effectiveness and value.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the most effective odor eliminator for your specific situation.
How to Prevent Basement Odors
Drawing from my 13-plus years of experience in the field, I’ve found that prevention is just as important, if not more so, than remediation when it comes to dealing with basement odors. Here are some tried-and-tested strategies that can help prevent these odors from forming in the first place:
- Regular Cleaning: Ensure to clean your basement regularly. This includes dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. Don’t forget to clean out any drains or sumps.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential in preventing basement odors. Consider installing an exhaust fan or using a dehumidifier to maintain air circulation and reduce humidity.
- Humidity Control: Dampness is a common cause of basement odors. A dehumidifier or a moisture absorber can help keep the humidity levels in check.
- Proper Waste Management: If you use your basement for storage, make sure to dispose of anything that could decompose and cause odors properly. This includes old food, paper, or cardboard.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your basement for signs of leaks, pests, mold, and mildew. Fixing these issues promptly can help prevent odors from forming.
By taking these preventative measures, you can help ensure your basement remains free of odors and is a usable, enjoyable part of your home. And remember, it’s always better to address a small issue now than deal with a big, smelly problem later!
Wrapping it up
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, from understanding the common causes of basement odors to exploring the best odor eliminators and prevention strategies.
Remember, dealing with basement odors is about identifying the root cause, choosing the right odor eliminator, and preventing future issues.
In the next section, we’ll explore five of the best basement odor eliminators I have encountered in my years of cleaning expertise. Each has been tested and proven effective in different scenarios. So, whether you’re dealing with a damp, musty smell or something more insidious, there’s a solution for you.
