7 Things That Might Make Your Home Smell Bad

You might walk into your home and notice a foul smell that you can’t put your finger on. You may wonder why it is that your home doesn’t smell as fresh as you’d like it to be.

Because of this, I have compiled a list of six things that might make your home smell bad.

1. Lack of Ventilation

Believe it or not, one of the primary reasons your home might not smell too great is due to a lack of ventilation.

Since air cannot circulate properly in closed spaces, it may lead to musty odors.

Therefore opening your windows and doors for a few hours every day can significantly improve your indoor air quality.

2. Dirty Laundry

Another offender that could make your home smell bad is dirty laundry.

Clothes that have been worn but not washed, especially gym wear or wet clothes, can give off an unpleasant scent.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to wash your clothes regularly and not let dirty laundry pile up.

3. Mold and Mildew

Basically, mold and mildew can grow in damp areas, and their scent is particularly pungent.

That’s because these fungi release microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), which are known to have a musty odor.

Because of this, it’s crucial to check your home for any signs of mold and mildew and deal with it immediately.

4. Uncleaned Garbage Cans

Certainly, the garbage can is another thing that might make your home smell bad.

Even when you take out the trash, bits of food and waste can stick to the can and start to decompose.

Therefore, regular cleaning of garbage cans with bleach or soap is crucial to prevent bad smells.

5. Dishwasher and Washing Machine

Even machines designed to clean can make your home smell bad.

Believe it or not, dishwashers and washing machines can harbor mold and bacteria, particularly if they’re not cleaned regularly.

Therefore, it’s important to run an empty cycle with a machine cleaner every so often.

Also, leave the door of your washing machine open when not in use to let it air out and dry.

6. Old Furniture

Old furniture, especially upholstery, and mattresses, can absorb a multitude of smells over the years.

As well as from the general wear and tear, smells can also come from spills, pets, and smoke.

Hence, it might also be necessary to clean or replace old furniture to freshen up your home.

7. Pet Odor

Though we love our furry friends, we can’t deny that they might sometimes they can make your home smell bad.

Pet odor can come from their fur, breath, even urine, or even from their food.

Thus, regular cleaning and grooming of pets is key to a fresh-smelling home.

Takeaway

Maintaining a fresh-smelling home can sometimes be a challenge.

Key offenders that may make your home smell bad include poor ventilation, dirty laundry, pets, mold, mildew, garbage disposals and dishwashers, and washing machines.

Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and attention to these common culprits can significantly improve your home’s scent.

Further Reading: How to Make Your House Smell Good Naturally