Assess the source of the musty smell
Moisture - Check for leaks or damp spots in your storage unit. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to a mildew smell and musty odours. Look for water stains on walls, floors, or storage boxes. If you find dampness, it’s essential to address it immediately and get rid of the excess moisture.
Organic materials - Old items like clothing and cardboard boxes can trap moisture, creating perfect conditions for mould and mildew. Inspect your belongings—anything that looks damp or smells off should be addressed, mould thrives on organic materials, so be vigilant!
Poor Ventilation - Many storage facilities lack proper airflow. Stale, humid air contributes significantly to musty odours. Consider this a significant factor if your storage unit has no windows open for ventilation, causing mould and mildew growth.
Deep cleaning
Clear everything out - Start by removing all items from your unit. This gives you a clean slate to work with and makes it easier to tackle every corner.
Vacuum and sweep - Give the floor a good sweep and vacuum. Get rid of dust, dirt, and any debris. Don’t forget hidden corners where dirt likes to hide!
Wipe down surfaces - Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water in a spray bottle. Use this solution to wipe down shelves, walls, and furniture. This vinegar solution contains a natural deodoriser that neutralises odours and removes bacteria.
Steam clean if needed - For upholstered furniture or soft furnishings, consider steam cleaning to eliminate odours and bacteria. This can be particularly effective if any items have been stored for long periods.
Inspect your stuff - As you clean, check each item for signs of mold or moisture. Clean or toss anything that shows significant damage. Remember, a clean unit is a happy unit!
Improve airflow
Let’s get some fresh air flowing in! Increasing airflow in your storage unit can help reduce humidity levels and prevent musty smells.
Use a fan - If you have access to electricity in your storage unit, consider setting up a portable fan. This will help circulate air while you’re cleaning and drying out any damp areas.
Open windows - If your storage unit has windows, keep them open on dry, sunny days. Fresh air does wonders for ventilation! It helps reduce humidity and can also improve the overall scent of the space.
Add ventilation grills - If your storage unit allows it, think about installing small ventilation grills. These can enhance airflow, allowing stale air to escape while letting fresh air in.
Better airflow means fresher air—simple as that!
Dehumidify the space
Use dehumidifiers - If your unit has power, a small dehumidifier can be a game-changer. It actively removes moisture from the air, reducing the risk of mould and mustiness. Just remember to regularly empty the water tank!
Desiccants - Place silica gel packets or activated charcoal bags around your storage unit. These materials are excellent at absorbing excess moisture and odours, helping to keep the air fresh.
Baking soda - An easy and affordable solution is to sprinkle baking soda around your unit or place bowls filled with it. Baking soda is a powerful moisture absorber and helps neutralise nasty smells. You can also use it in combination with laundry detergent when washing stored items.
Distilled white vinegar - To tackle musty smells in your storage unit, mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Spritz the white vinegar solution on shelves and surfaces and anywhere with mould — they work as fantastic natural deodoriser! Let it dry, and you’ll enjoy a fresher space in no time!
Use natural deodorisers
Essential oils - Mix a few drops of essential oils—like lavender, tea tree, or lemon—with water in a spray bottle. Spritz this mixture around the unit for a lovely aroma. Not only do these oils smell great, but they also have antimicrobial properties to keep bacteria at bay.
Cedar blocks - Cedar is fantastic for repelling moisture and pests, and removing any mildew smell. Place cedar blocks or chips throughout your storage unit for ongoing odour control. Make your unit an odour free storage space!
Coffee grounds - For an added layer of freshness, consider placing bowls of coffee grounds around the unit. They’re excellent for absorbing odours and can mask any musty smells.
Store items properly
- Use airtight containers - Ditch cardboard boxes in favour of plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. This will help keep moisture out and protect your items from humidity.
- Cover furniture - If you’re storing larger items like couches or chairs, use breathable covers. Avoid plastic covers, as they can trap moisture inside and lead to mustiness.
- Elevate items - Store boxes and furniture off the ground using pallets or shelves. This keeps them from coming into direct contact with damp floors, reducing the risk of musty odours.
- Choose climate-secure storage units - If you’re storing sensitive items, climate-secure storage units (like those offered by HOLD) can help manage humidity levels and protect your belongings from heat and moisture.
Regular maintenance
- Visit Regularly - Make it a habit to check on your unit every few months. This will help you spot any potential issues early on and address them before they escalate.
- Replenish deodorisers - Don’t forget to refresh your baking soda or activated charcoal regularly. This ensures that they continue to absorb moisture and odours effectively and get rid of any mildew smell.
- Wash soft furnishings and clothes - If any stored items like clothes develop a pungent smell, wash them before storing them again. This will prevent any lingering odours and keep your belongings fresh.
- Address issues promptly - If you notice any signs of moisture or odours returning, take action right away! Whether it’s improving ventilation, cleaning, or reapplying deodorisers, addressing issues early can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Extra tips for preventing musty smells
- Store items properly - When packing items for storage, make sure they are completely dry before placing them in the unit. Even a tiny bit of moisture can lead to musty smell over time.
- Limit organic materials - If possible, avoid storing items that are prone to trapping moisture, such as paper, cardboard, or fabric—especially if they’re old or damaged. Choose materials that are less likely to absorb humidity.
- Use airtight bags for fabrics - For clothing or linens, vacuum-sealed bags can significantly reduce the amount of air (and moisture) that gets trapped with your items. This method is particularly useful for long-term storage.
- Air purifier - Consider investing in an air purifier for your storage unit. It can help reduce humidity levels and eliminate odours, ensuring a fresher environment.
- Control pet dander - If you’re storing items that may have come into contact with pets, make sure to clean them thoroughly before storing. Pet dander can contribute to unpleasant odours over time.
By following these extra tips, you’ll create a resilient environment that effectively fights musty odours!
HOLD has climate-secure units that prevents mould growth
If you're in search of a storage facility in London that offers climate-secured units and first-class security, HOLD Self Storage is here to help. With a friendly team, and a wide range of amenities, our Kings Cross facility has everything you need to keep your belongings safe and sound.
Contact us today for a free quote or to learn more about our services!
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my storage unit?
It’s a good idea to visit your storage unit every few months to inspect for signs of moisture or odours. Early detection can prevent bigger problems later.
What if my belongings still has a musty smell after cleaning?
If odours persist, consider washing or steam cleaning any soft furnishings or clothes. You may also want to refresh your deodorisers or consider additional cleaning methods.
What is HOLD?
HOLD is a next-gen storage facility shaking up the industry with flexible, secure, and tech-forward solutions. As a true disrupter, we seek to put the storage customer first. That's why we offer affordable storage solutions with easy online access, price-match guarantees, and a hassle-free approach that makes storing your stuff easier than ever.
As Londoners ourselves, our service is finely tailored for urban living, providing secure, 24-hour access units that adapt as your needs change. No more rigid storage contracts, just smart, convenient space that works for you.
Am I charged weekly, monthly or annually?
We bill monthly, but also take pre-payment for longer stays, which can unlock a discount.
Do I need insurance for my belongings?
We offer Store Protect which means that we accept liability of your goods whilst in our
