How to Get Rid of a Mildew Smell From Furniture Drawers

An old piece of furniture from a thrift or antique store can be an exciting find. Often these pieces of furniture come with a familiar musty smell that lends character and indicates age. This musty smell, however, is more than just age and charm, but the indication of mold and mildew. In drawers where light and fresh air don't often get in, mold spores can accumulate, creating an unpleasant and unhealthy odor. A little sunshine and minimal cleaning is all that is needed to eliminate this musty odor.

Tarp
Antibacterial wood soap
Cloth or sponge
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the drawer from the furniture and empty it out.
- 2
  Lay a tarp, newspapers or an old blanket outside in a sunny spot and set the drawers on top of it with the opening facing up.
- 3
  Allow the drawers to sunbathe for three to four hours so that the warm sunshine has an opportunity to dry up the mold spores.
- 4
  Mix an antibacterial wood soap with water per the manufacturer's instructions.
- 5
  Dip an absorbent cloth or sponge into the soapy water and wipe down the inside of the drawer thoroughly.
- 6
  Wipe down the inside of the drawer with a clean, dry cloth to eliminate excess moisture.
- 7
  Set the drawer back outside to air dry in the sunshine for one to two hours.
- 8
  Put the drawer back in the furniture and set a dish or open box of baking soda inside to absorb any residual odor. Leave the baking soda in the drawer for at least 24 hours.

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