Yes, here goes: 1. Open them up 2. Empty them 3. Put at least two dehumidifiers (the ones that look like bowls with silica gel) in them 4. With the closet open, let the dehumidifiers gather humidity for a week, and empty them when they get full 5. If you find any areas affected by mould, use hydrogen peroxide on them to kill the fungi (cont'd)
Not sure of the specifics but if possible, see if there is a source for the funk, like in the basement, crawlspace or attic. Getting rid of it with Mona's excellent methods is a start, but it is important to find out where it is coming from to avoid repeating it.
It may be condensation from a hot/cold source, outside air, etc. We have a dehumidifier in the basement, otherwise our HVAC ducts condensate really bad and this presents mold.
If the odour is not something from a serious problem, but maybe just a spill, or maybe leftover scent from wardrobe protectors (red cedar or moth balls), or just someone abusing perfumes, wash with diluted vinegar, then leave a bowl of baking soda, or citrus peels.
As for the humidity, you may have to find the source; if it's condensation from improper insulation, if it's leaking plumbing or roof... Taking care of the source will solve the problem long-term.
You can also use activated charcoal to absorb the odors. Easily available at a pet supply store in the aquarium section. Yak used that on a really bad smelling sax mouthpiece box that he bought. There’s also ozium if you can find it.
cedar balls might help a little. I remember my Pappaw built cedar-lined closets when he, my dad, and my uncle built their house. (Dad was a teen at the time.)
Boo-narian
: so, some are less than cooperative, I take it. Just point it out that it's one less bag to haul to the dumpster. Or did you mean a Starbucks is hard to find in the region?
1. Open them up
2. Empty them
3. Put at least two dehumidifiers (the ones that look like bowls with silica gel) in them
4. With the closet open, let the dehumidifiers gather humidity for a week, and empty them when they get full
5. If you find any areas affected by mould, use hydrogen peroxide on them to kill the fungi (cont'd)
I've got some Damprid on order, to start.
There’s also ozium if you can find it.
https://naturefreshpurifier.com/...