A Smelly Basement Is Not Okay. Here’s Why

A Smelly Basement Is Not Okay. Here's Why

It's normal for a basement to smell, right? After all, that's what you'd expect from the part of the house where your stuff is stored and nobody ever goes.

The Reason Your Basement Smells

Smelly basements have lots of causes. It could be that a mouse or other small animal died down there. Maybe you're storing old clothes that have been locked in a closet for centuries. It could have a simple cause like this, but if it's musty or smells like mildew, you've got serious problems.

The Dangers of Mold

Mold infestations occur where there is standing water, a leak, or wet material that hasn't been properly dried out. When the mold dries, it release spores into the air. These spores can travel from your basement throughout the house. It doesn't matter if you keep the door closed because they can travel through the air ducts.

Finding the Enemy

Mold usually isn't visible to the naked eye. It flourishes in dark, hidden places and that's why it's not easy to see. Most people do not spot a mold infestation; they smell it. If your nose is telling you that something is wrong, don't just lock the door and forget about it.