Musty smell, mould spores etc

[Loosehead]

Anyone know how to get rid of that awful musty smell in wardrobes etc? and how to keep it gone. I am told it is caused by mould spores etc, athough I can see no actual mould. If I leave the door open the smell reduces over time but anyone got a more permanent solution? thanks

[Whickerman]

Hi Loosehead. If you clear the wardrobe and check that the smell isn't mildewed clothes - it happens! - then you can buy a trigger bottle of mould and mildew remover (think dettol make it) and spray the inside walls of the wardrobe. You can leave for about 15 mins and then sponge dry. Leave the doors open to really dry out - a day or two - and you should be right. The mildew would be black on wood, and probably not that visible, so treat it all.

[Loosehead]

OK thanks, and is there anything I can use to stop it returning?

[Whickerman]

If it's in a cold/unventilated room, then pretty much no - it's like a breeding ground for mould.

If it's attached to a wall or built in, it may be that the wall, floor or ceiling is damp and you need to get that seen to asap.

Otherwise, make sure all clothes are fully dried and aired regularly before and during storage.

[WendyS]

If you've cleared out your wardrobe and removed any mould which has appeared, the best way is to keep it ventilated by leaving the door slightly open.
There are some excellent moth repellent discs which smell strongly of lavender or citrus which you can buy from good hardware shops and these will help reduce any musty odour.

[maggie01]

When I had it in my wardrobe, I wiped it out with white vinegar and let it dry before putting clothes back. I also bought one of those gadgets with the crystals in. A humidifier. They are only small but it seems to do the trick as long as I remember to re charge it when the crystals change colour.

[Loosehead]

Thanks everyone, I'll implement some of your suggestions.