Expert: Eileen Cronk - 1/6/2007

Question
Hello,
I recently acquired my grandmothers bedroom set.  It is from approx 1929. It is Berkey and Gay.  Green - painted - with hand painted flowers, and red  and gold accents.  I would like to clean it, as it needs it, but am afraid I might damage it.  can you tell me what to use?  it has dirt spots, and fingerprints on drawer fronts, and headboards, etc.  also, what can I use in the drawers to eliminate odor? thank you

Answer
Hi Beth
Nice to hear from you.
A gentle cleaning with soap and water is all I would do.
If this fails to remove the dirt, then I would try Murphys soap which is made for furniture.
Just a mild solution and a gentle wash.
For the drawer smell, a solution of household bleach and water (about 1/4 cup in your pail of water) used on all bare wood surfaces.
Leave the drawers in the sun to dry well if possible, then I like to put a couple of scented fabric softener sheets in each drawer.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen