I am also in the basement. We had our basement completely waterproofed before I started, b/c we had a ton of leaking-especially with heavy rain. I also run a dehumidifier in the warmer months and I buy Damp Rid and hang up 3-4 bags throughout the whole basement. It helps with the damp smell. Here's a liink for it from amazon, but it's way cheaper at the store!
http://www.amazon.com/DampRid-Hangin...5740431&sr=8-4