Tired of That Musty House Smell? Here’s How to Get Rid of It

Is Your Home Smelling a Bit... Stale?

Ever walked into a home and instantly noticed a musty, aged scent that reminded you of old books or grandma’s attic? You're not alone. Many homeowners and buyers pick up on this common odor — often called the “old house smell.” But what causes it? And more importantly, how do you get rid of it?

Let’s break it down and freshen things up!

What Causes That Old House Smell?

1. Poor Ventilation

Older homes often weren’t designed with modern airflow systems. Without fresh air circulating regularly, humidity builds up and odors linger.

2. Moisture and Mold

Leaky pipes, basements, or even just high humidity can lead to mold or mildew — both major culprits of that musty scent.

3. Old Carpeting and Upholstery

Fabrics absorb decades of smells from cooking, pets, smoke, and even dust. Over time, they start to release those trapped odors.

4. Aging Materials

Wood, paint, wallpaper, and insulation can break down over time and give off a stale or musty scent.

5. Unused Rooms

Rooms that aren’t frequently used — or opened up — can collect dust and stagnant air, adding to the problem