Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/7/2004

Question
I recently placed an antique washstand that belonged to my great-grandmother in my home.  Immediately, I began having an allergic reaction (the same one that I have when I go into an old house that has been closed up for a long time).   The washstand had been redone and was in my mother's home for several years, so it was in good shape and clean.  Is there anything I can do to help remove any of the allergens that may be in the wood?  I don't want to do anything to damage it.

Answer
Hi Wanda
Nice to hear from you.
I suspect you could be having a mold reaction.
I would suggest you give the interior of the washstand a good scrub with 1 part Javex to 5 parts warm water.
Take the drawer out, do under and all sides (except the exterior.)
Proceed with the rest the same way.
Dry as you go with rags.
Is it possible your Mom used a wax you are allergic to?
If thats the case you could clean the exterior with varsol and give a coat of beeswax.
I like to use fine steel wool dipped in varsol and scrub.
Neither of the above will damage your washstand.
Good Luck
Eileen