Mildew Smell in Kitchen Cabinets
- Before doing anything else, empty your cabinets. The odor may emerge from rotting bread or produce. You should notice the mildew by its discoloration and velvet-like consistency. If any foods or items have mildew, dispose of them outdoors to prevent the fungal spores from spreading, which can lead to even greater problems.
- If mildew has begun to grow on the actual cabinet surfaces, you most likely have a liquid spill or leak of some kind. Examine all liquid bottles and containers, and then examine the interior of the cabinet itself. If water settles on a wood surface, mildew can begin to grow as wood naturally contains the necessary nutrient (cellulose) for mold spores. If the water appears to come from behind the cabinet, such as within the wall, call a plumber or mold expert immediately. You may have a plumbing leak or an insulation problem that requires immediate attention. Failing to resolve the problem may result in the growth of mold colonies.
- If you can smell the mildew but cannot see it, put on a rubber or latex glove and feel the entire interior for areas of soft wood. Wood has a high level of porosity and can trap liquid beneath the surface. To kill mildew spores on a porous surface, try drying the wood with a portable heating device, such as a hair dryer.
- Drying mildew will neutralize the spores, but if you want to fully remove the odor and ensure the complete elimination of mildew, you must disinfect. First, dry the inside of your cabinet. For powerful disinfection, scrub the entire interior with bleach or ammonia diluted with water before drying again. If odor remains, dip a cloth in lemon juice and scrub the entire interior. Lemon juice contains citric acid, making it effective mildew killer and deodorizer. Place only dry and sealed objects back into the cabinet.
