Preventing Mould and Musty Smells in Kitchen Cabinets

Mould needs moisture, still air and something organic to feed on. A sealed base cabinet under a sink in a humid climate provides all three, especially if there is a slow leak or if damp cloths and bin liners live in there.

Before treating a smell, check the trap, the tap tails and the dishwasher connection. Most persistent cupboard mould in Thai kitchens traces back to a slow weep that nobody noticed, not to humidity alone.

Leaving cupboard doors open for an hour after cooking makes a measurable difference. Ventilated plinths, a small gap behind the carcass back and avoiding tightly packed shelves all help air move rather than sit.

Wipe affected surfaces with a dilute vinegar solution rather than bleach, which does not penetrate porous board and can bleach the finish. Dry the cupboard fully before putting anything back, and replace any swollen board rather than treating it.