Is it OK to drink water that smells like mildew?

Author: Cristal Torp  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Water that has a musty smell is generally safe to use. However, to be cautious, the easiest way to rectify the problem is to employ a water dispenser with filtration capabilities.

Is it bad to drink water that smells like mildew?

Observe for symptoms: Pay attention to any symptoms that may arise after drinking moldy water. These can include diarrhea, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose/throat/eyes, headache, coughing, nasal congestion, wheezing, shortness of breath, or allergic reactions (3).

What to do if water smells musty?

A solution for removing musty smell is to sanitize your plumbing system, including your water softener, which your local EcoWater dealer can help with.

Does a musty smell mean there is water damage?

For mild mold growth, you can remove the mold using different methods. For large mold outbreaks, a professional mold remediation company can find the source of the mold issue, remove it, and help prevent future mold issues. Musty Smells: A musty odor smell is a key sign of water damage.

Is smelly tap water safe to drink?

Most drinking water does not have a noticeable taste or odour, however there may be some situations where this is not the case. If you suddenly notice a particularly bad or strong smell or taste which makes the water unpalatable, you should contact your water company.

Why Does My Water Smell Musty and What Should I Do?

Can I drink bottled water that smells bad?

We don't recommend that anyone drink water that looks, smells or tastes objectionable.

Why does my tap water smell funky?

Generally, a rotten egg (or sulfurous), decayed or sewage-like odor in household water is a result of bacterial activity, which can be due to: Bacteria growing in the drain: This is the most common cause of these types of odors.

How to get rid of water mold smell?

Consider using odor-neutralizing products or a solution of vinegar and water to deodorize the surfaces. Address affected items. If the musty odor emanates from upholstery or carpets, remove them from the area and perform a thorough cleaning.

How do you check for water damage in your house?

Look for visible signs of mold—stains, black spots, or discoloration on walls, floors, or ceilings. Don't forget to check inside your closets, under carpets, and behind furniture. Pay attention to odors. Even if you don't see mold, a musty smell is usually a tell-tale sign it's starting to form.

Why does my faucet water smell like mildew?

If you notice a musty, fishy, or earthy smell in your tap water, it is probably the result of an algae bloom. Algae bloom, or geosmin, occurs when algae grow in a city's water supply source.

What kills musty smell?

Along with all its other uses, baking soda is an excellent deodoriser that's suitable for use in the home. For example, to clean a smelly bin, try adding around 50 grams of baking soda to the bin followed by hot water.

Why does my water smell like a swamp?

These odors in your water may come from natural organic matter found in river water. Natural organic matter from river water can sometimes produce a swampy or musty taste and odor during the summer and fall months. This organic matter will not harm you at all, and the water is safe for you to drink.

Is it safe to drink mildew water?

Mold can irritate your stomach and digestive system. If you accidentally drink water with mold in it, you might feel sick to your stomach, get stomach cramps or have diarrhea. Allergic reactions. Some people are allergic to mold.

What does toxic water smell like?

Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfur Bacteria in Well Water. Hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) can give water a “rotten egg” taste or odor.

How to fix smelly water?

Use 3 pints of chlorine bleach for every 100 gallons. But you may want to double this amount if you have a really bad odor problem. The odor is caused by hydrogen sulfide, which tends to neutralize chlorine. Fill the water tank, and be sure it's pressurized.

What are the 10 warning signs of mold toxicity?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

Is mildew bad for your health?

Mildew exposure poses fewer health risks – coughing, headaches, sore throat, and respiratory problems. However, like mold, prolonged exposure can create more severe symptoms. When mildew appears on the visible surfaces of your house, it is typically removed sooner.

What does toxic mold smell like?

Black mold has an infamous, recognizable odor. Detecting this scent could be crucial in identifying a mold problem before it causes too much damage. Experts describe black mold as smelling musty—comparing it to rotting wood or leaves or wet, sweaty socks.

Is it safe to drink musty smelling water?

Water that has a musty smell is generally safe to use. However, to be cautious, the easiest way to rectify the problem is to employ a water dispenser with filtration capabilities.

How do you remove mold from drinking water?

Studies have shown that white vinegar can effectively kill 82% of mold spores, in addition to viruses and bacteria species. Add a mixture of white vinegar and water to fill up your bottle. Let the solution soak inside your bottle overnight.

What is the difference between mildew and mold?

Mildew has a gray, white or light brown color and generally rests flat on the surface of a moist area. It has a powdery appearance that may have a distinct, foul odor. Mold has a fuzzy, raised appearance and in unaired areas has a strong, musty smell. It often appears in darker shades of black, green and red.

Why does my water smell like mildew?

Musty Smell- If your water has a musty, almost moldy smell, it could be from erosion in your water pipes. Erosion can be caused by hard water.

Is it safe to shower in water that smells like sulfur?

Bathing and showering: While sulfur water won't harm your skin, the odour can linger on your body and hair, making you feel less clean. The unpleasant smell can also make bathing a less enjoyable experience. Washing clothes: Sulfur water can leave yellow stains on laundry and make clothes smell unpleasant.

Why does my water smell bad from only one faucet?

An odor in one faucet in the house can usually be remedied by flushing the offending faucet. Other possible causes are: Water softener (if applicable) malfunctioning or in need of service. Bacterial growth in a drain, or a dried out drain.

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