What can I do about musty smelling box fans?

Answer by  JCW (233)

Unplug the fan, then take the assembly apart. Carefully hose off the screens on each side and using a can of compressed air carefully blow the motor clean. Wipe down inside of the box and spray with an air freshening agent, reassemble the fan and make sure the screens are secure.

Answer by  GilFinn (2065)

Clean and remove as much dust and grime that has built up on the fans. Use a spray bottle to lightly spray chlorine bleach on all parts of the fan. Allow to fully dry outside before plugging in. The musty smell is probably from mildew, so you'll need to keep it away from any damp areas.

Answer by  alize (34)

you can try to mask the smell with other scents, or you can just leave the area. You can try buying an air purifier, as that may neutralize the odor overall, and eliminate the hardship you are dealing with. As a last resort you can also hire someone to take care of the problem for you.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

There is a product called Odor Rid and is sold in the Exterminator Store. It is a lite green color. If this doesn't get rid of the smell then nothing will. Insurance companies use this to clean out house fires, and it usually does the trick. I think you can also get this in bar form.

Answer by  jlwilson6 (1098)

For a box fan you can make a simple paste out of baking soda and water. Just mix them together until it makes a creamy paste-like substance. You can use a soft cloth to rub the substance onto the fan. You should continue this process daily until the odor disappears.

Answer by  tv5544 (30)

When I have a musty smelling box fan, I usually spray essential oil through the fan grill onto the bottom of the fan away from the motor.