Home maintenance tips for managing humidity and odors

Managing household odors and moisture requires addressing the underlying causes of humidity. To prevent mold growth, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends identifying and repairing water sources such as leaks, damp walls, condensation, or poor ventilation.

Effective strategies include checking for leaks under sinks, inspecting windows for infiltration, and ensuring air circulation by opening doors and windows. In cases of high outdoor humidity, using air conditioning or dehumidifiers may be more effective than opening windows.

For maintaining pleasant scents in closets and drawers, DIY alternatives to commercial air fresheners are available. One method involves creating scented sachets using a mixture of fabric softener, perfume, alcohol, baking soda, and gelatin to provide a long-lasting fresh aroma.