I've inherited a chest of drawers and matching bureau from my mother. The interior and drawers stink. I'm at a loss as to what the odor is much less how to get rid of it.
The odor reminds me of Estee Lauder's Youth Dew perfume with a sharp vinegary overtone. I've tried cedar eggs, mothballs, potpourri, bleach, and fabric softener (liquid and dryer sheets).
Does anyone have any idea what might work to kill the odor? I'm handicapped and on a limited budget, so I could really use a great home remedy that is very easy to use. Thank you in advance for any suggestions!
By Susan from Brentwood, NY
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Try cleaning the inside of the drawers with Murphy's Oil Soap which leaves a nice scent behind. In a large bowl use about 1/4 to 1/2 capful of the liquid with warm water.
I would try to polycoat the inside of the drawers if they are natural, if they are painted I would repaint them. This should "seal the odor in" as opposed trying to remove it.
I've used the sun to get rid of odors from a trunk. Just place in strong sunlight. Don't let the furniture get wet at all and check often so the finish will stay OK. I have also read that charcoal, crumbled newspapers, and cat litter help.
I know this sounds silly but it works! Pour fresh (unused) kitty litter in the drawers. Wait a few days and the odor will be gone. I used this technique to remove odors from wooden cheese boxes.
PS keep the cats away while waiting or you will have a bigger issue! Sherielu
Put an open small bag of charcoal that you grill with in the drawers and forget about it for about a week or longer. Amazingly the charcoal will absorb the orders then throw them away.
Place a slice of lemon on a saucer or bicarbonate of soda in the drawer and it will absorb the odor.
This works every time! Line the drawers with a couple sheets of newspaper and put 1/2 cup unused coffee grounds over the paper. Shut the drawers for a week. Voila! No more odor.
what are unused coffee grounds? If coffee is brewed then it is used. So do you just mean coffee from the package?
Yes, use the coffee grounds straight from the package. They will have good absorption of odors.
Ask one of your neighbors who bar-b-q's for a few new (not burned) charcoal briquettes. Put one or two in each stinky drawers and forget about it for a week. If the drawer still stinks after a week leave the briquette for another week until the odor is gone.
Clean the insides thoroughly with Krud Kutter or similar, rinse that with damp rag, let dry completely. Then seal the odors in permanently with Spray BIN shellac clear. (Tape off fronts) Works fantastically. This is what I use on old smelly pieces that I refurbish and sell. I have used many of the other methods posted here and although they do work, I often find that over time the odor returns.
Never with the BIN.
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