Remove old smells from antique furniture carefully to protect the surface.
Antique furniture acquires an old smell over the years. The musty smell is the result of dust, dirt and even mildew that has formed on the furniture. The odors stick to the furniture and soak into the fabric or wood. Releasing the odors with items that you have around the home restores the antique furniture close to its original condition so that you can enjoy its beauty without the stench. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Take the furniture outdoors to clean it just in case it contains loose mold spores. If possible, leave the furniture outdoors for 24 to 48 hours to air out. Place the furniture in a shady location because the sun fades fabrics.
2. Vacuum the surface of the furniture with an upholstery attachment to remove the spores. Remove cushions and pillows, and vacuum all cracks and crevices.
3. Combine 2 tbsp. of mild liquid dish soap with 1 quart of warm water in a bucket. Dampen a washcloth in the soapy water, and wipe the surface of the furniture quickly to prevent the water from soaking into the fabric or wood. Rinse the surface with a damp washcloth, and let the furniture air dry.
4. Clean wood surfaces with 8 tbsp. of washing soda mixed with 1 gallon of water to remove any foreign debris that could be the culprit of the odor. Rinse the solution off the wood with a damp washcloth.
5. Cover the furniture with baking soda to absorb the odors. Let the baking soda set overnight, then vacuum it off the furniture carefully.
Tags: antique furniture, baking soda, damp washcloth, fabric wood, furniture carefully
