Expert: Eileen Cronk - 9/11/2005

Question
Hi Ellen.  Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions.  I have some wood antiques that my dad put in storage before he died.  They are getting moldy and I want to clean them up for sale.  What is the best way to clean the mold and then protect the wood?   I have used Simple Green in the past but was recently told that Simple Green was not appropriate.  What would you suggest?

I have mirrors, tables, dressors, plant stands and hutches.

thanks Nicolle

Answer
Hi Nicolle
Sorry for the delay in getting to you.
The site was having trouble I guess, and I only just received your question.
First, give all the pieces a gentle wash inside and out with soap and water with a bit of household bleach. About a 1/4 cup bleach to a gallon water. This should kill the mold. Dry as tou go. Do not let the solution sit on the wood.
Then a good going over with lemon oil should put everything in shape for selling.
Do not even consider doing anything else if these pieces are for sale. Most buyers want old things in original condition.
Good luck with your sales, and I wish I lived close enough to have a look.
Thanks for a great question.
Eileen