Hey everyone! About 14 months ago, my husband and I experienced a devastating house fire that ruined our master bedroom and attic. Our cedar chest, which is made of solid cedar with a veneer exterior, was on the first floor and got soaked with water from the fire. Now, it has an awful musty odor, and I really want to save it. Does anyone have tips on how to eliminate or reduce this smell?
3 Answers
You might want to check out some mold cleaning tips. A mixture of vinegar and water works great for cleaning wood, or you can use a mildew cleaner made specifically for wood. Just let it dry completely afterwards. If the smell lingers, sealing the wood with shellac can help contain any odors.
Here's a wild trick that works wonders! Get a bag of plain charcoal (make sure it’s not the self-lighting kind), fit it into the chest, and then cut the bag open to let the charcoal breathe. Close the chest and leave it for a few weeks. The charcoal absorbs all the odors and moisture. It sounds odd, but trust me, it works really well!
First off, try putting the empty cedar chest outside in the sun for a couple of days. Sunlight helps kill off any mold or bacteria that might be causing the smell. Just remember to turn the chest around so all sides get equal sun exposure. Keep in mind that it may slightly darken the wood, but it's worth it! After that, light sanding on the inside could help remove any stubborn mold spots and enhance that fresh cedar scent. Plus, it acts as a natural moth repellent for whatever you store inside!
Thank you!! That sounds like a great start!
Thank you!! I’ll definitely try that!