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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/smell
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Question
i have an antique dresser whose drawers have a musty, for lack of a better term,smell how can i eliminate this or neutralize it
Hi Paul
Nice to hear from you.
I am very very familiar with this smell, and I call it musty too.
This should fix it for you.
First mix up a scrub pail of warm water and a 1/2 cup of household bleach.
Give all interior surfaces a wash including the interior of the dresser too. Do not let this get on the finish, and be prepared with a dry rag if it does.
Next if possible put the drawers in the sun for a couple of hours.
If this is not feasable, leave the drawers out of the dresser for a day or two.
Then place a fabric softener sheet or two in each drawer and close them.
Use name brand fabric sheets not dollar store ones.
Put fresh softener sheets in when you fill the drawers.
And time also will help after this process, but this will elimate most of it for you.
Good Luck
Regards
Eileen
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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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