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  1. #1
    citymama is offline Pink Diamond level (15,000+ posts)
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    Default How to get rid of musty smell in a clothes drawer?

    The main dresser I use has 3 drawers. One of them has been made completely useless because I mistakenly threw in a wool shawl that was gifted to me - not knowing it stank of mothballs and general mustiness. It's where I store my wool and silk clothing, all the "dry clean only" stuff, all of which now stinks to high heavens. Gah. I am airing out and dry cleaning (and tossing) the clothes, but what do to about the smelliness of the drawer itself? I will confess I left the dang shawl in there for close to a year before getting rid of it!

    The drawer/dresser is made of solid cherry wood, and is currently airing on the deck in the backyard. Still smells though. Thanks for any advice!

    for Sandy Hook



  2. #2
    lizzywednesday is offline Red Diamond level (10,000+ posts)
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    Try a box of baking soda; for drawers, I like the brand-name ones with the removable sides so there's no spillage:

    http://www.armandhammer.com/deodoriz...n-freezer.aspx

    If that doesn't work, I'm not sure what to tell you.
    ==========================================
    Liz
    DD (3/2010)

    "Make mistakes! Get messy!" - Miss Frizzle

  3. #3
    jgenie is offline Red Diamond level (10,000+ posts)
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    Quote Originally Posted by lizzywednesday View Post
    Try a box of baking soda; for drawers, I like the brand-name ones with the removable sides so there's no spillage:

    http://www.armandhammer.com/deodoriz...n-freezer.aspx

    .
    I was going to say the same thing. If it doesn't work and you're planning to toss things, you might try coffee grounds.

  4. #4
    citymama is offline Pink Diamond level (15,000+ posts)
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    Thanks, ladies! I see Martha Stewart recommends vinegar in a plastic container with holes punched at the top (might make the drawer smell like vinegar!). I also came across this suggestion of using charcoal.

    I think I'll try baking soda first. Least smelly, least messy, easily available. Should I put the drawer back in the dresser to do so, or leave it airing outside? In other words, does the baking soda only work in a closed space?

    for Sandy Hook



  5. #5
    mikala is offline Diamond level (5000+ posts)
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    Is the inside of the drawer finished? You might try sanding it down if not. Whenever you think it's ready for use again I'd put a towel or newspaper inside for awhile to double check before you fill it with clothes.

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