I've often observed that when I return to my apartment, theres a particular "moist-water" smell.

Question

[1]Its not becuase of sweating.
[2]It happens to everyone coming in.
[3]It goes away after a while.
[4]The apt. has centrally conditioned air supply.

Answer 1

First thing that comes to mind is Mold and that can be dangerous. If you rent the Apartment,inform the Landlord and make sure they have someone come out to check for mold; might want to have them check the central Air as well.

Answer 2

You might want to check under sinks, dishwashers, water heaters and toilets for small water leaks. Does the central air have a pipe inside your apartment for condensation drainage? That could be the reason too. My house has one in the basement drain. I have never noticed anything draining from it, but have sometimes noticed the wet kind of smell.

Answer 3

The smell is probably still there you just become accustomed to it.

Is this only when the air conditioning is on? If so then it could be in the AC system. Complain to your buildings landlord

Answer 4

Buy one of those $5 moisture containers from Lowe's. It has these little granules inside that absorb moisture from the air. If yours become moist, it is in the air.
Check for leaks

Answer 5

Some one snuck in your apartment while you was gone and took a shower and left the bathroom door open while taking a shower

Answer 6

I'd bet money it's from the air conditioner. It happens in my home as well.

Answer 7

You may need to buy a dehumidifier. You can get them at any hardware store.

Answer 8

Prolly rising damp , dry rot or mould.