The closet smells musty
- Where I am
- Clothes come out smelling stale.
- Where I want to be
- A closet that smells like nothing.
- What's in the way
- Air doesn't move in there, and damp gets trapped.
Landlord's job? Report it in writing with dates, and keep a log. Who fixes what depends on your lease and where you live.
Try this first, free: Leave the closet door open for a day and take everything out. See what the shelves and walls look like.
The fix
- Empty the closet and wipe shelves and walls with a cloth and warm soapy water. Let them dry.
- Leave the door open, or prop it a few inches, so air can move.
- Hang a moisture absorber or a reusable damp absorber bag inside.
- Keep things off the floor and a little away from the outside wall.
What this won't fully fix: A dry-out and an absorber help with mild dampness. A closet on a wet outside wall will keep fighting you.
Safety first: If you find black patches spreading on the wall or a wet spot that keeps coming back, tell the landlord.
What to get
These open an Amazon search, so you can pick the one that fits. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.