How To Get Smoke Smell Out Of Old Wood Furniture

How to Banish Smoke Smell from Old Wood Furniture

Inherited an antique armoire or a vintage dresser that's haunted by lingering smoke odors? Don't despair! Removing the pungent scent from old wood furniture is possible with a few practical techniques.

1. Ventilation and Sunlight

Expose the furniture to fresh air and sunlight whenever possible. Open windows and let the sunlight stream in to naturally air out and deodorize the wood. Sunlight's UV rays can help break down odor molecules.

2. Charcoal and Baking Soda

Charcoal and baking soda are natural odor absorbers. Place bowls filled with activated charcoal or baking soda inside the furniture and leave them there for several days to absorb the smoke smell.

3. Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is a mild acid that can neutralize smoke odors. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Mist the solution lightly onto the wood, avoiding saturation. Allow it to dry completely.

4. Citrus and Cinnamon

Citrus fruits and cinnamon have fresh, aromatic scents that can mask smoke odors. Place orange or lemon peels inside the furniture and sprinkle ground cinnamon on the surfaces. The natural oils will help absorb and neutralize the smoke particles.

5. Ozone Generator

An ozone generator produces ozone gas, which is an effective odor eliminator. Place the generator inside the furniture and run it for several hours or overnight. Ozone can oxidize and break down odor molecules.

6. Commercial Odor Absorbers

Specialized odor absorbers designed for furniture can effectively remove smoke smells. Place the absorbers inside the furniture and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Professional Restoration

If home remedies fail, consider seeking professional restoration services. Furniture restorers can use specialized techniques to remove deep-seated smoke odors, such as chemical treatments or heat sterilization.

Remember to be patient and persistent when removing smoke smell from old wood furniture. It may take several attempts and a combination of methods to achieve the desired results. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood.