ᐅ After mold removal, there is still an odor in the KALLAX – what can be done?

Hello everyone,

I discovered mold growth in my KALLAX shelving unit, which I have now thoroughly removed. The unit was completely vacuumed, scrubbed, and treated with an anti-mold spray. However, an unpleasant, damp odor remains, especially strong in the enclosed compartments. Has anyone had experience with effectively eliminating this smell after mold removal in a KALLAX shelving unit? I want to prevent the mold odor from lingering permanently on the furniture or in the living space. Thanks in advance for any tips and advice!

Oh, I know that all too well! Mold spray and similar products are great, but often they’re not enough to completely get rid of the odor! 🙂

Here’s my tip for you: place the KALLAX shelf outside in the fresh air or in a well-ventilated, dry spot. Also, put activated charcoal or baking soda in the compartments – these absorb odors really well!

Ventilating several times and being a bit patient often work wonders. Don’t give up, it will get better! :-)

Hello givin,

To effectively eliminate the musty smell, I recommend a three-step approach:

1. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth using a mixture of water and vinegar (1:1 ratio) to neutralize organic residues.
2. Allow it to dry thoroughly, ideally using a fan or by leaving it in a well-ventilated area for several days.
3. Place odor-absorbing materials such as activated charcoal, cat litter, or baking soda to bind the volatile odor molecules.

Avoid using harsh cleaners that could damage the wood or the surface.

If the smell persists despite these efforts, the wood may already have deeper damage.

PAR63 schrieb:
inserting odor-absorbing materials such as activated charcoal, cat litter, or baking soda

This is a very important point. In addition to odor absorbers, I also recommend treating the affected surfaces with a specialized cleaner designed for mold residues that penetrates deeply into the pores. Since KALLAX is usually made of wood-based particleboard, odors tend to be absorbed easily.

Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that no moisture remains in the material, as moisture intensifies mold odor.

Declan55 schrieb:
Place the KALLAX shelf in fresh air or in a well-ventilated, dry spot if possible

I have done that thoroughly; the shelf has now been on the balcony for several days. I have also aired out the compartments multiple times with the windows open.

PAR63 schrieb:
Wipe with a damp cloth using a mixture of water and vinegar

That sounds reasonable. How often should I repeat this, for example? And is regular acetic acid sufficient, or would it be better to use a specific type of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar?

BOSULE schrieb:
Special cleaner for mold residues

I have been cautious about this because I don’t want to damage the surface, but based on what you say, it seems necessary. Are there any recommendations for cleaners that are suitable for KALLAX materials?

Hello givin,

Your outlined steps are great, and I can relate well since I have dealt with mold several times myself. Regarding vinegar: household vinegar is perfectly fine, as it’s mainly about the acidic effect that neutralizes organic residues. Apple cider vinegar is more a matter of preference. It’s important to dry the area thoroughly afterwards, because any remaining moisture can cause new problems.

As for the specialized cleaner: tried-and-tested products are those based on hydrogen peroxide or lactic acid. They target fungal spores and are gentle. Make sure to apply it only with a soft cloth and avoid soaking the surface; just rub it in lightly.

If the shelf continues to emit odors afterwards, a combination of activated charcoal and regular ventilation can often absorb the lingering smell.