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While you can put air fresheners at the opening to ductwork, most experts don’t recommend it. You will only disguise the odors rather than treat the underlying cause. Plus, blasting the concentrated chemical fragrance into your home’s air when the HVAC system is on may be overpowering and cause respiratory issues.

Musty smells often indicate the presence of mold, which can lead to various health risks. Inhalation of mold spores may trigger allergic reactions, causing sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy or watery eyes. People who suffer from mold allergies or asthma may experience more severe respiratory problems. Certain types of mold, like black mold, can lead to mycotoxicosis, a condition associated with serious health effects like respiratory problems, fatigue, headaches, and skin irritation if exposure continues for an extended period. Those with weakened immune systems, respiratory problems, or allergies may be more vulnerable to the health risks that come with musty smells. Therefore, it is crucial to address and eliminate the source of the odor promptly.

Figuring out why you have a musty smell in your house is the first step to getting rid of it. Mold or mildew is most likely causing the unpleasant odor. People use these terms interchangeably, but they’re actually different.

Mold is a fungus that loves to grow in moist, humid places. It’s typically black or green and has a raised, uneven texture. Stay vigilant for signs mold may be growing in your home. 

You’ll find mildew growing on your shower walls and in your bathroom’s nooks and crannies. It’s a specific type of mold that grows flat. Mildew is usually white, gray, or yellow.

A mild skunk smell in your house can last up to three weeks, dissipating over time with proper ventilation. However, if you leave stronger smells untreated, they can last for months or years, becoming more difficult to remove the longer they sit. This is especially true of odors that have seeped into fabrics such as clothing or furniture or those in your pets’ fur.