My Experience Removing Mothball Odor From Cedar Chest

Recently, I inherited a beautiful cedar chest from my grandmother. The chest was in great condition, except for one problem – it had a strong mothball odor. As someone who is sensitive to strong smells, I knew I had to find a way to remove the odor.

Removing Mothball Odor From Cedar Chest – Step by Step Guide

Here are the steps I followed to remove the mothball odor from my cedar chest:

1. Remove all items from the chest and vacuum the interior thoroughly.
2. Place a bowl of white vinegar inside the chest and close the lid. Let it sit for several days.
3. Remove the bowl of vinegar and air out the chest for a few days.
4. If the odor persists, repeat steps 2 and 3 until the odor is gone.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Removing Mothball Odor From Cedar Chest

Here are some additional tips and ideas for removing mothball odor from cedar chest:

1. Try using activated charcoal or baking soda instead of vinegar.
2. If the chest has drawers, remove them and place them outside in the sun for a few days.
3. Place cedar chips or sachets inside the chest to help absorb any remaining odors.
4. Keep the chest in a well-ventilated area.
5. Avoid using strong chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the wood.
6. If the odor is particularly strong, consider hiring a professional to clean the chest.
7. Store clothing or linens in sealed containers before placing them inside the chest.
8. Consider using lavender or other natural moth repellents instead of mothballs.
9. Regularly air out the chest to prevent odors from building up.
10. Be patient – removing mothball odor can take time.

Pros and Cons of Removing Mothball Odor From Cedar Chest

There are both pros and cons to removing mothball odor from a cedar chest.

Pros:

• Easier to use and enjoy the chest without the strong odor.
• Less risk of the odor transferring to other items stored in the chest.
• Can help preserve the wood and prevent damage from mothballs.

Cons:

• Removing the odor can be time-consuming and may require multiple attempts.
• Some methods may be ineffective or damage the wood.
• May be expensive to hire a professional to clean the chest.

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Removing Mothball Odor From Cedar Chest

After following the steps outlined above, I was able to successfully remove the mothball odor from my cedar chest. I used white vinegar and it took a few attempts, but the odor is now completely gone. I also added some cedar chips to the chest to help prevent any future moth problems.

Overall, I would recommend trying natural methods like vinegar or activated charcoal before resorting to harsh chemicals or hiring a professional. Be patient and persistent, and you can enjoy your cedar chest without any unpleasant odors.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: Can I use bleach to remove mothball odor from my cedar chest?

A: It is not recommended to use bleach on wood as it can damage the surface. Stick to natural methods like vinegar or baking soda.

Q: How long does it take to remove mothball odor from a cedar chest?

A: It varies depending on the method used and the strength of the odor. It could take a few days to a few weeks.

Q: Can I still use mothballs in my cedar chest?

A: While mothballs are effective at repelling moths, they can also damage and discolor wood. Consider using natural moth repellents instead.