A house is supposed to be a haven, a place to relax and feel comfortable. But sometimes, houses can start to smell less than ideal. If your home has been smelling off lately, don’t worry – you’re not alone. There are a few common reasons houses start to develop funky smells. And even better, there are easy solutions for each one!
You Have Pets
Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or reptile, pets can be one of the leading causes of smelly homes. Pets tend to track in dirt and grime from outside, which can quickly lead to musty smells inside. Their fur can also add to the smell if pets are kept indoors. Also, if you have an indoor cat, you may notice smells from the litter box.
The Solution
The best way to combat pet-related smells is to keep your pets clean and groomed. Give them regular baths (or at least wipe them down with a damp cloth), and brush their fur regularly. Be sure to clean the litter box for your indoor cats whenever it gets full or dirty. Try an air purifier, which can help remove pet dander and other airborne particles from the air.
Photo by nataliya vaitkevich
You Don’t Clean Enough
If your home starts smelling, one of the main reasons is that it simply isn’t clean enough. Dust may seem like a minor issue, but it’s one of the most common problems that lead to smelly homes. According to Good Housekeeping, Dust builds up rapidly, and if you’re not vigilant about cleaning it, that dust will start to trap other smells due to its porous nature. It also affects the quality of air which may cause a musty smell.
You may still need to clean the garbage cans, which can cause smells to linger. The moisture from half-empty cans of food or dirty containers can quickly lead to mold and mildew, making your home smell unpleasant.
The Solution
The best way to combat a dirty house is to clean it regularly. Aim to dust all surfaces at least once a week and vacuum carpets and floors at least twice a week. Remember to clean other areas that tend to get neglected, like baseboards, walls, and ceilings. In addition, be sure to empty all garbage cans regularly and wash them out with soap and water every so often. It will not only eliminate the smell, but it also helps to prevent pests.
You Have Bad Ventilation
If your home doesn’t have good ventilation, smells can quickly become trapped inside. This is especially true in kitchens and bathrooms where many smelly things happen! This is because these rooms tend to be more humid than other areas of the home, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
The Solution
The best way to combat bad ventilation is to open up the windows! This will help circulate fresh air and eliminate any smells that may be lingering. Consider investing in an exhaust fan for your kitchen and bathroom, especially if you don’t have windows in these rooms. These fans will help remove any moisture and smells from the air, keeping your home fresh and clean. You can add a few houseplants, which act as natural air purifiers, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and bamboo palms.
You Have Too Much Stuff
Clutter can quickly lead to smells because it provides places for hiding bacteria and dust. If your home is starting to smell and you can’t figure out why take a look around-is it time for a decluttering session? This clutter includes old clothes, books, magazines, and anything else that you no longer use or need. They may have gathered dust over time and now emits musty smells. These items could have also absorbed moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew growth, shares Missouri.edu.
The Solution
The best way to combat smells from clutter is to declutter your home regularly. Donate or sell items you no longer use, and keep surfaces clean and dust-free. Consider investing in storage bins or containers to help keep things organized and reduce the amount of clutter in your home. It may be hard to throw household items due to their sentimental value, but if they’re only collecting dust, it may be time to let them go.
Something’s Rotten
Sometimes, houses start to smell because there’s rotting food hidden away. This one can be tricky to track down, but if your house has started smelling like something died, chances are something is decomposing somewhere that needs to be dealt with ASAP. Another reason for a rotten smell is a clog in your drain. When water cannot properly drain, it can rot and release an unpleasant smell into your home because of mold growth.
The Solution
Start deep cleaning your home if you think rotting food may be hidden away. This includes checking behind appliances, cupboards, and under furniture for any signs of mold or mildew. Look also into hidden areas where small animals can enter your home and create nests, such as in the attic or behind walls. Lastly, if you suspect the clogged drain is the reason, it is best to call a professional plumber. They can properly unclog your drain or even fix or replace your drainage system.
If your house has been smelling off lately, don’t panic-there’s probably a simple explanation! By simply cleaning more often or opening up windows, you should be able to get rid of any bad smells in your home and enjoy that crisp, clean scent again in no time!
