Natural Ways to Remove Damp Smell: Vinegar Cleaning Tips That Work

If you’ve ever walked into a room and been hit by that damp, musty smell, you’re not alone. Whether it’s coming from clothes, carpets, or walls, that tell-tale odour can make your space feel less than fresh.

At Simmer & Stir, I’m all about natural ways to make your home smell beautiful — and vinegar is one of the most underrated heroes. It’s a powerhouse cleaner that neutralises odours (not just covers them up), cuts through mildew, and when paired with herbs or essential oils, leaves behind a subtle, natural fragrance.

Natural Ways to Remove Damp Smell: Vinegar Cleaning Tips That Work

Here’s how you can remove damp smell naturally and transform vinegar from a sharp-smelling cleaner to a gentle, scented ally against damp.

Why Vinegar Works

White vinegar contains acetic acid, which breaks down the molecules, causing foul smells. It’s especially effective on mildew, making it perfect for laundry, carpets, curtains, and even walls.

But yes, vinegar itself has a strong scent.

The trick? Infuse it with citrus peel, herbs, or essential oils to soften its aroma and leave behind something much more pleasant.

Natural Cleaning Tips with a Scented Twist

Scented Vinegar Spray for Fabrics & Carpets

• You need:

  • 1 cup white vinegar

  • 1 cup water

  • Peel of 1 lemon or orange (or a few sprigs of rosemary/lavender)

  • 10 drops essential oil (optional)

• Make it: Combine in a spray bottle. Let it infuse for a day, then lightly mist carpets, curtains, or damp-smelling clothes (test delicate fabrics first).

• Tip:  Don’t oversaturate — a light mist + airflow does the trick!

Deodorise Washing Machine & Laundry

• Add ½–1 cup of vinegar to an empty hot wash cycle to clean your machine.

• For damp-smelling laundry, add ½ cup to the rinse cycle.

• To scent it: pre-infuse the vinegar with citrus or herbs before using.

Wipe Down Walls & Surfaces

• Mix 1 part scented vinegar with 1 part water.

• Wipe walls, windowsills, or anywhere mildew lurks.

• Follow up with a dry cloth.

Freshen Air with a Bowl of Vinegar

• Fill a bowl with scented vinegar and place it in a closed, musty room.

• Let it sit overnight to absorb odours, then remove.

Bonus: Simmer Pot After Cleaning

Once you’ve cleared the damp smell, finish with a simmer pot to bring warmth and fragrance to your home. Try simmering orange peel, cloves, cinnamon, and rosemary on the stove — your house will smell amazing.

Tips for Success

• Use white vinegar (not malt or cider)

• Always test delicate fabrics or surfaces.

• Improve airflow: open windows, use fans, or run a dehumidifier.

• Be patient — vinegar’s sharp scent fades as it dries.

Final Thought

Vinegar might not be fancy, but it works. With a bit of help from citrus, herbs, or essential oils, you can tackle damp smells without reaching for harsh chemicals — just simple, natural fixes that get the job done.

FAQ: Removing Damp Smells Naturally

1. Does the vinegar smell go away? Yes! Once dry, vinegar’s sharp scent fades, especially when you’ve infused it with herbs or citrus.

2. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead? It’s possible, but white vinegar is best for cleaning because it’s clear and leaves no sticky residue.

3. What essential oils work best for scenting vinegar? Try lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, tea tree, or rosemary — they complement vinegar’s sharpness and have natural antibacterial properties.

4. Will vinegar damage fabrics or carpets? It’s generally safe when diluted, but always spot test first on delicate or coloured materials.

5. What if the damp smell keeps coming back? Persistent damp smells may be a sign of hidden moisture or mould. Check for leaks, improve ventilation, and if needed, consult a professional.