Learn how to remove smell from cupboards naturally using safe home remedies. Step-by-step methods, real-life stories, and prevention tips for long-lasting freshness.
Introduction
An unpleasant smell coming from cupboards is a common household issue that often goes unnoticed until it becomes strong. Whether it’s a musty odor in clothes cupboards, a stale smell in kitchen cabinets, or dampness in storage units, these smells can affect hygiene and comfort. Many people try air fresheners or scented sachets, but the odor usually returns after a few days.
Cupboard smells are rarely caused by dirt alone. Trapped moisture, poor ventilation, old paper, fabric fibers, or leftover spills are usually responsible. Because cupboards remain closed for long periods, odors build up quietly and linger.
The good news is that you can remove smell from cupboard naturally without using chemical sprays or expensive products. With simple ingredients and consistent habits, cupboards can stay fresh for a long time. This guide explains why cupboard smells occur, how to remove them step by step, and how real households solved the problem naturally.
Why Cupboards Develop Bad Smell
Cupboard odors develop due to a mix of moisture and lack of airflow.
Common causes include:
- Dampness during monsoon or winter
- Storing clothes or items slightly wet
- Poor ventilation inside cupboards
- Old newspapers or cardboard absorbing moisture
- Grease buildup in kitchen cabinets
- Long periods without cleaning
Unless moisture and residue are addressed, smells tend to come back.
Cupboard Areas Most Affected by Odor
- Clothes wardrobes
- Kitchen cabinets under the sink
- Shoe racks
- Linen cupboards
- Storage units near walls
Checking these areas regularly helps prevent strong odors.
Natural Ingredients That Work Well
You don’t need commercial deodorizers. These natural items are effective:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Lemon peels
- Rock salt
- Activated charcoal
- Dry coffee grounds
- Newspaper
These absorb moisture and neutralize odor naturally.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Smell From Cupboard Naturally
Step 1: Empty the Cupboard Completely
- Remove all items
- Separate clothes, utensils, or stored goods
- Discard damp or unusable items
Cleaning is most effective when cupboards are empty.
Step 2: Clean Interior Surfaces
- Wipe shelves and corners with vinegar diluted in water
- Focus on edges and back panels
- Dry completely using a cloth
Vinegar helps neutralize odor-causing bacteria.
Step 3: Allow Proper Drying and Airing
- Keep cupboard doors open for several hours
- Allow sunlight and airflow if possible
This step is crucial to stop odor from returning.
Step 4: Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Place one or more of the following inside the cupboard:
- Bowl of baking soda
- Rock salt wrapped in cloth
- Activated charcoal pieces
- Dry coffee grounds in an open container
Replace every 2–3 weeks.
Step 5: Return Items Only When Fully Dry
- Ensure clothes and utensils are completely dry
- Avoid overcrowding shelves
- Leave small gaps for airflow
Safety Tips While Deodorizing Cupboards
- Avoid mixing vinegar with chemical cleaners
- Do not place loose powders directly on shelves
- Keep natural absorbers out of reach of children
- Never store wet items inside cupboards
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using strong air fresheners to mask smells
- Storing damp clothes or utensils
- Keeping cupboards closed continuously
- Ignoring moisture near walls
Real-Life Home Stories: Cupboard Odor Removal
Story 1: Seema Kulkarni – Karve Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra
Seema Kulkarni noticed a persistent musty smell in her clothes cupboard every monsoon. Despite using scented sachets, the odor returned quickly. She emptied the cupboard, wiped it with diluted vinegar, and left the doors open for a full day. She placed bowls of rock salt inside and avoided storing clothes immediately after ironing. Within a week, the smell disappeared and did not return that season. She now repeats this routine before every monsoon.
Story 2: Abdul Rahman – Perambur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Abdul Rahman experienced a strong damp smell in his kitchen cabinet under the sink. Moisture from plumbing pipes was the main cause. He fixed a minor leak, dried the cabinet thoroughly, and placed activated charcoal inside. He also cleaned grease residue regularly, similar to the methods in
how to remove grease from kitchen cabinets naturally at home
The odor stopped returning, and the cabinet remained dry.
Story 3: Rina Banerjee – Behala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Rina Banerjee noticed a stale smell in her storage cupboard near an external wall during winter. Condensation was forming behind stored items. She moved items away from the wall, wiped moisture daily, and used baking soda and newspaper as absorbers. She also followed general moisture control habits similar to
how to protect home from mold during rainy season naturally
The cupboard stayed fresh throughout the season.
Do vs Avoid: Cupboard Odor Control
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Air cupboards regularly | Keeping doors closed always |
| Use natural absorbers | Using chemical sprays |
| Store items fully dry | Storing damp items |
| Clean shelves periodically | Ignoring back corners |
Preventing Cupboard Smell Long-Term
- Open cupboards weekly for airing
- Use moisture absorbers year-round
- Keep cupboards away from damp walls
- Clean spills and residue immediately
Good cupboard hygiene supports overall home freshness. Moisture control practices used for appliances—like those in
how to clean washing machine drum at home naturally
are equally useful for storage spaces.
FAQs
1. Why does cupboard smell come back?
Because moisture or residue was not fully removed.
2. Is baking soda safe for clothes cupboards?
Yes, when kept in an open container and replaced regularly.
3. Can sunlight remove cupboard smell?
Yes, sunlight and airflow help eliminate trapped moisture.
4. How often should cupboards be cleaned?
Deep cleaning once every 3–4 months is ideal.
5. Do scented sachets solve odor permanently?
No, they mask smell but don’t remove the cause.
Simple Summary
Cupboard smells are usually caused by moisture, poor ventilation, and trapped residue—not lack of cleaning products. By emptying cupboards, cleaning surfaces naturally, drying thoroughly, and using moisture absorbers, you can remove smells safely and permanently. Real-life home experiences show that simple habits work better than strong fragrances.
With consistent care and natural methods, cupboards can stay fresh, dry, and pleasant throughout the year—without relying on chemicals or artificial scents.
Safety note: If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing any home maintenance task mentioned in this article, it’s safer to consult a qualified professional.
