That distinctive musty smell is one of the most persistent reminders of mould exposure. In Singapore's humid environment, mould odors can permeate clothing, footwear, bags, and entire rooms. This guide provides proven methods to eliminate these stubborn smells.
Removing Mould Smell from Clothes
Method 1: White Vinegar Wash
- Add 1-2 cups of white vinegar to the wash cycle
- Use hot water if fabric permits
- Add regular detergent as usual
- Run an extra rinse cycle
- Dry in sunlight if possible
Method 2: Baking Soda Pre-Soak
- Dissolve 1/2 cup baking soda in warm water
- Soak clothes for 30-60 minutes
- Wash normally with detergent
- Add 1/2 cup baking soda to wash for extra power
Method 3: For Stubborn Odors
Combine vinegar and baking soda approaches:
- Soak in baking soda solution first
- Wash with vinegar added
- Use enzyme-based laundry booster
- Sun-dry completely
Removing Mould Smell from Shoes
- Baking soda: Sprinkle inside shoes, leave overnight, shake out
- Newspaper: Stuff with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture and odor
- Freeze method: Bag shoes and freeze overnight to kill odor-causing bacteria
- Essential oils: Add drops of tea tree or eucalyptus oil on a cotton ball inside
- Activated charcoal: Place sachets inside shoes when not wearing
Removing Mould Smell from Leather Bags
- Wipe exterior with diluted rubbing alcohol (1:1 with water)
- Place in fresh air away from direct sunlight
- Fill with baking soda or activated charcoal, leave 24-48 hours
- Wipe interior with dry cloth
- Apply leather conditioner to restore moisture
- Store with silica gel packets to prevent recurrence
Eliminating Mould Smell from Rooms
Immediate Actions
- Increase ventilation – open windows, use fans
- Run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture
- Place bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or white vinegar around the room
- Clean all surfaces with anti-mould solution
Address the Source
- Find and eliminate any mould growth
- Check hidden areas: behind furniture, inside closets, in carpets
- Clean or replace air filters
- Consider professional inspection for persistent odors
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the musty mould smell?
The musty smell is caused by microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) – gases produced by mould as it grows and digests organic materials. Even after visible mould is removed, these compounds can linger in porous materials.
Can vinegar remove mould smell from clothes?
Yes, white vinegar is effective at neutralizing mould odors. Add 1-2 cups to your wash cycle along with regular detergent. For stubborn smells, soak clothes in a vinegar solution (1:4 ratio with water) for 30 minutes before washing.
How do I get mould smell out of leather bags?
Clean leather with a mixture of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol, then wipe dry. Place the bag in fresh air (but not direct sunlight). Use baking soda inside the bag overnight to absorb odors. Condition the leather after to prevent drying.
Why does my room smell musty even after cleaning?
Hidden mould sources like behind furniture, inside walls, in carpets, or in HVAC systems may be producing odors. Porous materials like curtains and upholstery can also harbor mould odors. A professional inspection may be needed to find the source.
Is baking soda effective against mould odours?
Yes, baking soda is excellent at absorbing odors rather than just masking them. Sprinkle on affected areas, leave overnight, then vacuum. For clothes, add 1/2 cup to your wash. For rooms, leave open boxes in corners.