According to the CDC, using dehumidifiers to remove moisture can help control mold growth and the musty odors they create. Indoor air with excessive moisture can promote the growth of mold and mildew that keeps multiplying, giving off a musty smell that can be annoying.
This guide discusses how dehumidifiers work to remove smells, and goes into detail on the leading dehumidifiers for odor elimination.
How A Dehumidifier Removes Smells
Water molecules in the air tend to trap and hold odors. A dehumidifier will dry the air and remove most smells along with the moisture. The dehumidifiers can eliminate or reduce various odors including:
- Food odors
- Rotting odors
- Musty odors
To eliminate musty odors, ultimately the growth of mold and mildew needs to be prevented in the first place, by keeping the humidity below 60%, and ideally between 30-50%.
A dehumidifier removes moisture and can maintain optimum humidity levels, which prevents the growth of microbes that can cause the musty odor to return.
A dehumidifier draws in air from a room and removes the moisture by collecting it into a water tank.
The dry air is then blown back into the room.
The humidity in the air is removed either by cooling it, in a similar manner to a refrigerator, or by adsorbing it into a drying medium. Either way, dehumidifiers maintain optimum humidity levels.
The 18 Best Dehumidifiers for Odor Elimination
Te eliminate odors in a room, set your dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels between 30 and 50%. Dehumidifiers that have a high working capacity (dehumidification capacity) and a large water tank will be more effective at removing odors indoors.
Here’s the top dehumidifiers available for odor elimination:
Check out the latest prices for the brands you like by clicking on the links or images below.
1. Afloia Dehumidifier
This Afloia 215 sq. ft dehumidifier can efficiently reduce musty odors by removing 26 oz (750 ml) per day of moisture in a humid environment.
These small electric dehumidifiers with advanced Peltier technology can create a comfortable environment in the home, basement, bathrooms, garage, and RV.
Pros
- 0.42-gallon water tank
- Low noise (30dB)
- Sophisticated design
- Handle for portability
- Automatic shut-off/on
- Energy efficient
Cons
- A continuous drainage option is not available.
The complete range of Afloia dehumidifiers is available direct from Afloia.com or via Amazon.com.
2. PureDry Deluxe Dehumidifier
The PureDry Deluxe dehumidifier from Pure Enrichment removes 20 oz (570 ml) of water per day from rooms up to 500 sq. ft, taking musty and nasty odors with it.
This dehumidifier is perfect for the office or bedroom as it is whisper-quiet.
It comes with an automatic shut-off feature that switches the dehumidifier off once the water tank is full, preventing any overheating or damage to the unit. It is also backed by Pure Enrichment’s 5-year warranty.
Pros
- 0.34-gallon water tank
- Quiet.
- Transparent water tank.
- Automatic shut-off.
- ETL certified.
- 5-year warranty.
Cons
- Suitable for small areas only.
- A continuous drainage option is not available.
The complete range of PureDry dehumidifiers is available direct from Pureenrichment.com or via Amazon.com.
3. hOmeLabs Dehumidifier
The hOmeLabs 3000 sq ft Energy Star certified dehumidifiers can remove up to 35 pints (20 L) of excessive water from the air per day, making the surroundings free of musty odors. They feature a ‘Turbo Mode’ for efficient dehumidification and odor reduction.
They are perfect for large rooms, basements, offices, or cellars.
Pros
- 1.6-gallon water tank capacity
- Low Noise (50dB)
- Sleek design
- Continuous 24-hour cycle
- Built-in wheels and handles
- Automatic shut-off
- Easy to use and maintain
- Optional drain hose outlet
Cons
- 12-month warranty
4. Vremi Dehumidifier
The Vremi 4500 sq. Ft Dehumidifier can remove 50 pints (28 L) of water a day, making it perfect for spaces between 3000-4500 sq. ft. They can efficiently remove the excessive moisture leading to an environment free of humidity-related odors.
Vremi dehumidifiers boast a ‘Turbo Mode’ that increases fan speed for maximum moisture removal. These Energy Star-rated dehumidifiers are ideal for large rooms, offices, and basements.
Pros
- 1.8-gallon water tank capacity
- Quiet operation (55dB)
- Sleek and clean look
- Continuous 24-hour cycle
- Built-in wheels and handles
- Automatic shut-off function
- Auto Defrost
- Portable
- Easy maintenance
- Drain hose outlet for continuous water drainage
Cons
- 12-month warranty
- Noisy
- The drain hose needs to be bought separately.
5. Gocheer Upgraded Dehumidifier
The Gocheer 400 sq. ft dehumidifiers with semiconductor condensate technology is one of the best small space dehumidifiers that can eliminate musty odors overnight. They can remove up to 34 oz (1000 ml) of moisture from the air per day.
These compact humidifiers are best for small living rooms, basements, kitchens, bathrooms, etc.
Pros
- 0.5-gallon water tank capacity
- Low noise (less than 40dB)
- 360o airflow
- Continuous operation
- Lightweight and portable
- Auto shut-off function
- Easy to use
- 15 months warranty
Cons
- No draining hose, and the bucket needs to be emptied manually.
6. COLZER 5500 Sq Ft Dehumidifiers
The COLZER 5500 sq. ft dehumidifiers are highly efficient high-capacity appliances with the potential to remove 100 pints (57 L) of moisture in 24 hours.
They are great devices to dehumidify and remove moldy odors in damp basements, offices, cellars, laundry rooms, bedrooms, storage spaces, and living areas.
Pros
- 1.3-gallon water tank capacity
- Low noise (55dB)
- Continuous 24-hour cycle
- Four rolling casters and two side-grip handles,
- Automatic shut-off
- Auto defrost
- Three different modes, i.e., smart, dry, and cont.
- Lock option for control panel
- Comes with a 6.5ft drain hose
Cons
- 12-month warranty
- A few customers complained that they received a faulty dehumidifier unit.
7. Waykar Dehumidifier
The Waykar 2000 sq. ft dehumidifier can remove 34 pints (1000 ml) of moisture per day, removing the moisture odors.
They are best for storage areas, garages, homes, cellars, and crawlspaces.
Pros
- Large water tank capacity (0.66 gallons)
- Quiet operation (8dB)
- Simple and elegant design
- 24-hour timer settings
- A lift-up handle and four casters
- 0-90o wide-angle air supply
- Auto humidity control
- Auto shut-off
- Auto defrost
- Drain hose included
Cons
- There is no handle with a water bucket and the water edge being close to the top makes manual draining difficult.
8. Tenergy Sorbi Air Dehumidifier
The Tenergy Sorbi 200 sq. ft dehumidifier is a two-in-one unit with both dehumidifying and air purifying capacity that can thoroughly remove various kinds of smells. Peltier technology and HEPA filtration system serve the purpose of odor elimination in this dehumidifier unit.
This dehumidifier can remove 26 oz (750 ml) of moisture per day from the air when used in small rooms, offices, or basements.
Pros
- 0.26-gallon Water tank capacity
- low noise levels (35-42db)
- Smart control
- Small and portable
- Automatic shut-off
- ETL and CARB certified
- 2-year warranty on registration
Cons
- Noisy, when on high fan speed.
9. LG PuriCare Dehumidifier
The LG PuriCare 2000 sq. ft Energy Star certified dehumidifier is a high-capacity dehumidifying device that can make a massive difference in the comfort of our home by removing excessive humidity and associated odors. It can remove 50 pints (28 L) of water a day.
LG PuriCare dehumidifiers are ideal for closets, washrooms, basements, and garages.
Pros
- 1.7-gallon water bucket
- Quiet (48dB)
- Tech-Savvy design
- 12-hour timer
- Automatic shut-off/on
- automatic defrost control
- Drain hose outlet available
- Easy to use
Cons
- The drain hose needs to be purchased separately.
- Only a 12-month warranty
- Some users complained that they had difficulty moving this unit due to the lack of wheels.
10. TOSOT Dehumidifier
The TOSOT Energy Star certified 4500 sq. ft dehumidifier could remove 50 pints (28 L) of moisture from wet and soggy rooms per day.
These dehumidifiers are suitable for homes, basements, crawlspaces, and studios.
Pros
- 2-gallon water bucket
- Low noise (less than 51dB)
- Four caster wheels for portability
- Auto shut off
- Drain hose outlet available
Cons
- The drain hose is not included in the unit.
- 12-month warranty
11. Tekola Dehumidifier
With a dehumidification capacity of 40 oz (1200 ml) per day, the Tekola 550 sq. ft dehumidifiers can effectively help you get rid of the dank atmosphere and musty smells.
They are suitable for RV, basement, bathroom, living room, and kitchen.
Pros
- 0.5-gallon water tank capacity
- Less than 30dB noise level
- Continuous 24-hour cycle
- Automatic shut-off
- Auto defrost
- Remote control(within 23 ft)
- Easy maintenance
Cons
- The continuous drainage feature is not available.
12. Ivation Dehumidifier
The Ivation 4500 sq. ft dehumidifier is one of the most popular dehumidifiers for controlling musty smells in the environment by keeping dampness and mold at bay.
With a dehumidification capacity of 50 pints (28 L) per day, these Energy Star-certified dehumidifiers can be used anywhere, from homes to offices, garages, and basements. The turbo mode allows quick and efficient dehumidification.
Pros
- 1.3-gallon water reservoir
- Low noise (55dB)
- Compact design
- Four rolling caster wheels
- 24-hour timer
- Auto shut off/on
- Auto defrost
- Easy to clean
- Drain outlet
Cons
- 12-months warranty
- Slightly expensive compared to other dehumidifiers on the market.
13. SEAVON Dehumidifiers
The SEAVON 560 sq. ft dehumidifiers are one of the most powerful moisture control devices that can help get rid of mold and musty odors by removing 26 oz (769 ml) of water per day.
This small and portable dehumidifier is good for bedrooms, bathrooms, caravans, basements, garages, etc.
Pros
- Large water tank capacity (0.54 gallon)
- Two working modes (high and low speed)
- Low noise (less than 30dB at low speed and 35-45dB at high speed)
- Lightweight and portable
- Automatic shut-off function
- Remote control
- Easy setup and operation
- 3 LED light modes
Cons
- Only 12-month warranty
- No drain hose outlet
14. Letsport Upgraded Dehumidifier
The Letsport upgraded 480 sq. ft dehumidifier can remove up to 34 oz (1000 ml) of water within 24 hours, making the surrounding moisture and odor-free.
These portable dehumidifiers can be used anywhere from bedrooms to basements, campers, RVs, offices, kitchens, and wardrobes.
Pros
- 0.53-gallon water tank
- Quiet operation(below 45dB)
- Lightweight and compact
- 360° Airflow
- Automatic shut-off
- Energy efficient(UL certified)
- Ease of use
Cons
- Only 12-month warranty
- A few users claimed that this humidifier was ineffective in removing humidity and odors in the air.
- No drain hose outlet
15. HOGARLABS Dehumidifier
The HOGARLABS 3500 sq. ft dehumidifiers are great devices for preventing dampness-related microbial growth and odors. They can remove up to 50 pints (28 L) of water a day.
These energy-efficient dehumidifiers are best for laundry rooms, storage rooms, RVs, garages, bedrooms, offices, living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Pros
- 0.6-gallon water tank capacity
- Quiet operation (44dB)
- Mystical look
- 24-hour timer
- Four 360° universal wheels and a top handle
- Automatic shut-off
- Auto Defrost
- Drain hose included for continuous water drainage
- 2-years warranty
16. COLAZE Dehumidifiers
With advanced semiconductor refrigeration plate technology, COLAZE 480 square feet dehumidifiers are highly efficient in removing moisture and musty odors. They can collect 28 oz (800 ml) of water from the air per day.
They are best for the basement, bathroom, garage, living room, and RV.
Pros
- 0.47-gallon water tank capacity
- Quiet operation (39dB)
- Compact and portable
- 24-hour continuous dehumidification
- Automatic shut-off
- Energy efficient
- Ease of use
- Comes with a drain hose outlet
- 7-colored night lights
- Three-years warranty
Cons
- A few users complained that this unit’s dehumidifying capacity was lower than advertised.
17. Pro Breeze Dehumidifier
The Pro Breeze 215 sq. dehumidifiers are efficient devices for odor elimination with a moisture removal capacity of 9 oz (255 ml) per day.
These small dehumidifiers are perfect for RVs, garages, bedrooms, boats, basements, and bathrooms.
Pros
- 16 oz water tank capacity
- Quiet operation (30-35dB)
- Continuous 24-hour cycle
- Compact and portable
- Automatic shut-off
Cons
- Only 12-month warranty
- The drain hose option is not available.
- A few users complained that it didn’t last as expected.
18. COSVII Upgraded Dehumidifier
The COSVII 480 sq. ft dehumidifier can dry your space, effectively removing odors caused by dampness. They can remove up to 34 oz (1000 ml) of water a day.
These portable dehumidifiers are suitable for kitchens, closets, RV, bedrooms, apartments, bathrooms, and basements.
Pros
- 0.44-gallon water tank capacity
- Whisper quiet (less than 35dB noise level)
- Lightweight and portable
- 360o airflow
- Continuous operation
- Auto shut-off function
Cons
- The drain hose outlet is not available.
- 1-year warranty
- A few customers complained that this dehumidifier was not effective in removing humidity as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Dehumidifier Get Rid of a Musty Smell in a Basement?
The musty smell in a basement is typically caused by fungal growth due to excessive humidity. Dehumidifiers can remove the excess moisture, thereby removing the root cause of odor in a basement. However, any established fungal growths must be physically removed.
Does a Dehumidifier Get Rid of Pet Smells?
Dehumidifiers can help reduce pet smells. However, this will be affected by the pet hair, dander, and other particles that aren’t physically eliminated by a dehumidifier. Air purifiers are better than dehumidifiers in removing pet odors, and the associated pet hair and dander.
Plentiful Air has more information about air purifiers that are perfect for pet odors and dander in this detailed post.
Can a Dehumidifier Make a Room Smell?
Dehumidifiers can make a room smell if they are not properly maintained. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air and collects it in the water collection tank; if the dehumidifier is not cleaned correctly, dust build-up (in the water tank and around the unit) and the growth of mold and mildew inside the unit, cause a musty odor that can spread throughout your home.
