ᐅ After water damage, all the compartments in the KALLAX smell bad – is there a way to get rid of the odor?

Hello everyone, I have a problem following water damage in my apartment: my KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA, which consists of several compartments, has developed a very unpleasant, musty odor in all the compartments. Despite thorough airing out and multiple cleanings, the smell just won’t go away. I’m interested to know if anyone has experience with how to permanently remove the odor from compartments like these. Are there specific methods or products that actually work? Or is the shelving unit often unfortunately beyond saving after this kind of damage? I would appreciate any tips, as I would prefer not to have to buy a new unit.

Hello Finnbu, generally, a musty smell following water damage is usually caused by mold spores or prolonged moisture exposure. In the case of a KALLAX shelf made of wood-based panels (particleboard), moisture penetrates deeply, making odor removal more difficult. To eliminate the odor, I recommend: 1) First, thoroughly clean all compartments with a mild solution of water and vinegar to reduce bacteria and fungi on the surface. 2) Then, allow the shelf to dry completely in a warm and well-ventilated area—using a dehumidifier if necessary. 3) To absorb odors, place activated charcoal bags or baking soda in the compartments. 4) If the smell remains strong after several days, treatment with specialized wood preservatives or professional mold remediation is often required. I believe that completely removing the odor without intensive treatment is very challenging, especially if the moisture has deeply penetrated the material.

vinli schrieb:
First, thoroughly clean all compartments with a mild solution of water and vinegar

This is a very good approach. I would add that vinegar helps in the short term but only works on the surface when dealing with deep-seated mold. In other words, if moisture has settled inside the KALLAX shelf, only intensive drying and regular monitoring can help. You should also make sure that the wood is completely dry from the inside, otherwise the odor will keep returning.

vinli schrieb:
Place activated charcoal bags or baking soda in the compartments

This works well as a supplementary measure to absorb odors. Additionally, breathable textiles, such as small cloths with coffee grounds, can be used – these also help absorb smells.

If the shelf is not too swollen or discolored yet, it can definitely be worth being patient and trying different methods.

I sympathize with you; that can be really frustrating. After a water damage, I also initially thought my furniture would never smell normal again.

What helped me was lining several compartments with newspaper and changing it regularly. Newspaper absorbs odors quite well and is inexpensive.

I also borrowed a dehumidifier to help the moisture evaporate faster. Although it took some time, it ultimately significantly reduced the unpleasant smell.

Sometimes a piece of furniture just needs time – patience is definitely an important factor here.

Let’s be honest, who really thinks about sustainable furniture care with such a cheap shelf? 🙂

I think these IKEA-type pieces are often overrated – in my opinion, they’re usually ruined after water damage. The particleboard soaks up moisture like a sponge, and the smell is a clear sign that the shelf was too damp for too long.

Sure, vinegar, baking soda, activated charcoal – all nice and good. But if you ask me, your shelf is basically disposable; solid wood furniture lasts longer and is easier to restore.

Consider whether you want to spend time and money on odor removal or just invest in something more durable right away. Because once that much moisture gets in, the problem will likely come back.

nanidra schrieb:
but in my opinion, your shelf is beyond saving

I can understand the frustration, but I wouldn’t give up just yet. After my water damage, I tried several different home remedies—not all worked immediately, but in the end they helped.

The most important thing is to dry it completely, because the smell comes from moisture trapped in the engineered wood. I also placed odor absorbers made from coffee grounds and baking soda in the compartments for several days.

Another tip: If you gently sand the shelf’s surface (carefully and only lightly), you can often reduce any remaining moisture and odors. Then make sure to air it out well again.

I know it sounds like a lot of effort, but if you’re attached to the shelf, it’s worth it.