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The laundry room has this musty odor - what could it be?

Published: Oct 5, 2025 07:14
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A musty odor in the laundry room can be quite unpleasant, it’s often a sign of underlying issues that need addressing
home maintenance musty odor laundry room cleaning tips
Asked by:
Author avatar CoastalLily

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Answers (9)

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Oct 6, 2025 16:14
Don't repeat my blunder, I ignored the ceiling and walls, they can be a source of mold too.
Answered by:
Author avatar @NotSoHandyDan
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Oct 8, 2025 08:14
Plot twist, the musty odor in your laundry room might not just be from damp clothes or leftover detergent residues, it can also stem from the walls or floor, particularly if they're made of porous materials, moisture can seep in and create an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew, consider assessing your entire laundry area for hidden leaks or condensation, investing in a dehumidifier might also help keep things dry and odor-free.
Answered by:
Author avatar @citysprout
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Oct 8, 2025 12:14
Highkey, moisture is the main culprit for musty smells, check for damp clothes or spills.
Answered by:
Author avatar lilwave
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Oct 9, 2025 12:14
Total lifesaver, using essential oils in the wash can help mask and reduce musty odors.
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Author avatar OceanBreeze42
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Oct 13, 2025 13:14
Don't rush into blaming the washing machine immediately, inspect your laundry baskets or hampers as well, sometimes damp laundry can sit in them too long, leading to a musty smell that spreads throughout the room, also make sure to wash your laundry baskets regularly and ensure proper airflow, it sounds simple, but simple solutions are often overlooked.
Answered by:
Author avatar @NotSoHandyDan
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Oct 13, 2025 18:14
Don't make my mistake of assuming the lint trap is the only culprit, sometimes the washing machine itself can harbor mold, especially around the rubber gaskets or the detergent drawer, try running a hot cycle with vinegar or a commercial washer cleaner to eliminate any hidden mildew, also check for any standing water in the machine as that can exacerbate the smell, and don't forget about the plumbing—clogs can lead to stagnation and odors too.
Answered by:
Author avatar Lily Nguyen
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Oct 16, 2025 10:14
Not to be contrarian, but the musty smell could also be linked to other factors like your ventilation, if the room is poorly ventilated, moisture accumulates and creates that musty aroma, try improving airflow by opening windows or installing a fan, remember to also check for any damp materials that could be contributing to the smell, if everything else fails, it might be time to consult a professional.
Answered by:
Author avatar Olivia Perez
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Oct 19, 2025 10:14
When I faced this issue, I discovered that my detergent was the problem, switching to a cleaner without added fragrances helped immensely, also make sure to dry clothes promptly after washing and keep the space well-ventilated to combat any lingering odors, regular maintenance of your appliances can prevent such issues from building up in the first place.
Answered by:
Author avatar OceanBreeze42
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Oct 26, 2025 08:14
I wish someone had told me that the dryer vent can also be a source of odors, it needs regular cleaning to prevent buildup.
Answered by:
Author avatar Maria Lopez

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