Most homeowners have experienced unpleasant odors in their houses. These odors range from damp and musty to pet smells and worse. But how do you identify these smells and prevent them from being a problem in your home? Read on for a few tips and tricks on identifying and preventing unpleasant odors in the home.

4 Common Sources of Odors in the Home

Odors in the Home: Musty Smells

Musty smells usually indicate mildew or mold growth in your home and come from warm, damp, and dark areas. A musty smell could occur anywhere from a basement or crawl space to an attic or even a closet. To identify the source of the odor, look for signs of moisture or water damage –  including discolored walls, plumbing leaks, or standing water. The best way to prevent mold and mildew growth is by improving ventilation, promptly repairing plumbing issues, and ensuring all areas of the house stay dry.

Kitchen Sink Odors

The kitchen sink needs to be clean and free of odors. Odors in the kitchen sink are not only unpleasant; they might indicate a problem with your plumbing or disposal system. There are steps you can take to prevent odors from occurring.

After washing dishes, run hot water down the drain for at least 15 seconds to flush food particles down the pipe, so they don’t accumulate and cause an odor. Keep up with regular cleaning of your in-sink disposal unit by using baking soda and vinegar and letting them sit for 30 minutes before rinsing the drain with hot water. You can also grind citrus peels in the disposal to combat grease and odors.

Smoke Smells

Smoke smells can come from burning food or cigarette smoke, but they often linger long after the source has been extinguished. To prevent this smell, don’t smoke indoors, and make sure all cooking is done properly with adequate ventilation.

Pet Odors in the Home

Pet odors are one of the most common household odors and can be difficult to eliminate. To combat pet odors, clean carpets, launder pet beds, and regularly groom your dog or cat. Keep your animals off the furniture or use furniture covers to trap pet hair.

Unpleasant odors in the home may range from damp to smoky, and some are difficult to identify. However, keeping the living spaces clean and taking preventative measures can keep bad smells at bay. Keep your home well-ventilated; clean up after pets regularly; avoid smoking indoors; and use products designed to deal with each type of odor. With these tips, you’ll maintain a fresh and clean-smelling household.

Peconic Home Inspections offers inspections to home buyers and sellers on Long Island. Contact us to request our services.