โ† Back to List
Storage & Organization Know-How

Closet Odor Removal: Tips for Perfectly Eliminating Closet Mold, Dampness, and Smoke Smells

Published: January 11, 2026
Views: 0

๐Ÿ‘ƒ That Musty Smell When You Take Out Clothes? The Perfect Solution for Closet Mold and Dampness

Even after washing and storing clothes cleanly, you might notice a musty, moldy odor when taking them out of the closet. This is mainly caused by dampness and poor ventilation inside the closet, which, if ignored, can lead to mold growth and moth infestation on your clothes. I will share the closet cleaning and management know-how to completely eliminate the damp smell and moisture and keep your clothes comfortably stored.

๐Ÿ”‘ The Core of Closet Odor/Dampness Removal: Ventilation and Dehumidification

Closet odors are mostly caused by mold spores or bacteria that thrive due to humidity, so you need to eliminate them and regulate moisture.

๐Ÿ’จ 3 Steps for Closet Cleanliness and Odor Removal

1. Empty and Wipe: Eliminate the Source of Mold (Essential)

  • Take all clothes out of the closet. (Check for mold on the clothes at this time.)
  • For areas where mold is found, wipe every corner clean with a cloth or wet wipe moistened with rubbing alcohol (ethanol). (Avoid bleach, as it can damage the wood or finishing materials inside the closet.)
  • Leave the closet doors open for at least one full day to dry completely, preventing mold from taking root.

2. Utilize Dehumidifiers: DIY Natural Dehumidifiers

  • Commercial Dehumidifiers (like DampRid): Place them on closet shelves and the floor. Be careful not to place them directly among the clothes.
  • Natural Dehumidifiers (Coarse Salt/Baking Soda): Put dried kelp, coarse salt, or baking soda into a wide-mouthed cup or small mesh bag and place them around the closet. They are excellent at absorbing moisture and odors.
  • Use Newspaper: Lay newspapers on the closet floor or under drawers to get both moisture absorption and moth-repellent effects simultaneously. (Replace periodically)

3. Deodorize and Add Fragrance:

  • Coffee Grounds: Place completely dried coffee grounds in a mesh bag in the corner of the closet; they make an excellent natural deodorizer.
  • Natural Aromas: Drop a few drops of lavender or cedar oil onto cotton or small pieces of wood and hang them up. This provides a subtle fragrance and acts as a moth repellent.

Tip: The Most Important Habit: The most critical step is to keep the closet doors wide open for at least 10 minutes more than once a week to circulate the air and release moisture.