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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/moth ball scented cedar chest

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Expert: - 7/23/2008


Question
Hello, Eileen-  
I also just inherited a 70 year old moth-ball scented cedar chest and was wondering if the advice you gave to Lisa (in a previous posting) worked as far as sanding the chest to restore the scent. I have received suggestions such as using white vinegar or charcoal to absorb the smell and was wondering if you had any success with such remedies...?

Answer
Hi Dina
Nice to hear from you.
I could never figure out why folks put moth balls in a cedar chest but its quite common.
About the only thing I know of that may help is an agressive sanding then leaving the chest open for some time.
Nothing wrong with a white vinegar wipe down of the interior after the sanding. And who knows perhaps the charcoal after all the above may help too.
I have smelled moth ball stored blankets after a good wash and an air dry that still retained this moth ball smell.
Its a son of a gun to get rid of.
But the air and sanding is the best.
Great question
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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