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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/cedar chest problem

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Question
i have inherited a cedar chest that really smells like moth balls or something inside. is there any way to "deodorize" the chest and restore it to its intended scent? thanks for any help you can offer!

Answer
Hi Lisa
Nice to hear from you.
Oh my gosh, moth ball smell is awful to get out.
The idea of a cedar chest is no moth balls are required.
So the entire inside of the chest will have to be very well sanded.
This is done also to restore the cedar smell even without moth ball smell.
Vaccum well and then leave open for a few days.
If the smell is still there, I would be tempted to spray with Fabreze.
Then sand again.
Good Luck and 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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