Learn how to identify the source of the odor so you might eliminate it for good.
ADAM ALBRIGHT
Tracking down a mildew smell in your bathroom can feel hopeless.
But scrubbing your bathroom surfaces isn’t the only way to eliminate odors.
Credit:ADAM ALBRIGHT
We’ve also outlined the best ways to get rid of mildew smells in the bathroomfor good.
Excess humidity:Mildew thrives in a humid environment.
Bathrooms are often plagued by high humidity due to the frequent water usage.
Decaying wood:Decaying wood, whether from water leakage or other causes, can lead to mildew growth.
Mold:Contrary to popular belief, mold and mildew are different.
However, mold, including dangerous varieties, can present a similar smell to mildew.
Mildew is usually limited to white and gray, but may turn darker with time.
Smell:To the untrained nose, it can be harder to differentiatemold and mildew smells.
However, mold is usually stronger smelling than mildew.
Left unchecked, mold can lead to serious health issues.
One method may do the trick, while more severe mildew issues may require a combination of methods.
Increase Ventilation
Unfortunately, bathrooms are plagued with ventilation issues, especially in older homes.
Even keeping your exhaust fan on all the time may not be enough.
If your bathroom has a window, open it up when the weather allows.
If increasing the ventilation isn’t enough to lower the humidity in your bathroom, consider using a dehumidifier.
Use an Air Purifier
Using an air purifierin your bathroom can help clean up the air.
Paint Your Bathroom
Did you know there’s such a thing as mold- and mildew-resistant paint?
Just be sure to clean and rid your bathroom walls of mildewbeforeyou apply the new coat of mildew-resistant paint.
Baking soda:Just like in your fridge,baking sodacan help absorb mildew smells in your bathroom.
Keep it clean:While your bathroom maylookclean, that doesn’t mean it is clean.
Make a habit of wiping off surfaces and cleaning up dust.
Squeegee your shower walls:Get ahead of the humidity bysqueegeeing your shower wallsafter you’re done.
