How to Freshen a Smelly Drawer

When a drawer begins to develop an unpleasant smell, the odor can fill the surrounding area, as well as attach itself to items stored in that drawer. Several items commonly found in homes can help remove the aroma from the drawer. Before you attempt to remove the odor, examine the drawer for the cause of the smell and rectify the problem. If you don't remove the source of the problem, the odor may return. In addition, remove all items in the drawer before cleaning and deodorizing.

Cloth
White vinegar
Pantyhose
Baking soda
Newspapers
Activated charcoal
Container with lid
Knife

Instructions

- 1
  Wipe the inside of the empty drawer with a cloth dampened with white vinegar. The vinegar dries on the surface and removes the odors.
- 2
  Fill a pair of pantyhose with baking soda. Lay the baking soda-filled pantyhose inside the drawer. Close the drawer and wait 24 hours; the baking soda will absorb the odors.
- 3
  Crumple several pieces of newspaper into balls. Place the balled-up newspapers inside the drawer. Continue adding balls of newspapers until you have filled the drawer. Close the drawer and leave it undisturbed for a few days. Repeat the process with fresh balls of newspaper if the odors remain.
- 4
  Pour activated charcoal inside a container that has a lid with vent holes. Alternatively, poke holes into a plastic lid with a knife. Secure the lid on the container and place it in the drawer. Close the drawer and wait 24 to 48 hours before removing the container.

How to Fix an Uneven Mattress

Removing an Odor From a Leather Couch

Furniture Care