A mouse died under the floor, how can I eliminate the smell?

A mouse died under the floor, how can I eliminate the smell? - briefly

Remove the carcass by accessing the cavity—cut a small opening, extract the body, and seal the gap. Clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner, apply a strong odor absorber, and increase ventilation until the odor dissipates.

A mouse died under the floor, how can I eliminate the smell? - in detail

A dead rodent hidden beneath flooring creates a strong, unpleasant odor that persists until the source is removed and the area is properly treated. The following steps eliminate the smell efficiently.

1. Locate the carcass.
   • Inspect the floor for bulging, discoloration, or damp spots.
   • Use a flashlight and a thin probe to feel for resistance in the cavity.
   • If the exact position is unclear, cut a small access panel in the nearest removable board.

2. Remove the body.
   • Wear disposable gloves and a mask rated for organic vapors.
   • Place the carcass in a sealed plastic bag, then double‑bag and discard according to local hazardous‑waste guidelines.

3. Clean the cavity.
   • Scrub all surfaces with hot water and a heavy‑duty detergent.
   • Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.

4. Disinfect.
   • Apply a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water or a commercial disinfectant approved for organic residues.
   • Contact the surfaces for the manufacturer‑specified dwell time, then wipe away excess liquid.

5. Neutralize odor.
   • Use an enzymatic cleaner designed for animal waste; spray liberally and let it penetrate the porous material.
   • For lingering smells, place an activated‑charcoal bag or a bowl of baking soda in the cavity for several days.
   • In severe cases, run an ozone generator in the sealed space for 30–45 minutes, following safety instructions to avoid human exposure.

6. Restore ventilation.
   • Open any nearby windows and run fans to circulate fresh air.
   • If the floor cavity includes vent ducts, clean them with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.

7. Prevent recurrence.
   • Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in the subfloor with steel wool and caulk.
   • Install a barrier such as metal mesh under the flooring to deter future intrusion.

Completing these actions removes the source, eliminates bacterial growth, and neutralizes the odor, restoring a clean, odor‑free environment.