How To Get The Wood Smell Out Of A Dresser

How To Get The Wood Smell Out Of A Dresser

Have you ever purchased a new wooden dresser and noticed a strong, unpleasant odor? I recently experienced this and was determined to find a solution. After trying different methods, I finally found a way to get rid of the wood smell. In this article, I will share my personal experience and offer advice on how to get the wood smell out of a dresser.

Why Does Wood Smell?

Wood can have a natural odor caused by the organic compounds it contains. Additionally, some manufacturers use chemicals and treatments to preserve the wood, which can also produce a strong smell. This smell can be unpleasant and overwhelming, especially if the dresser is placed in a small room.

Step By Step Guide

1. Air It Out

The first thing you should do is air out the dresser. Place it in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, and leave it for a few days. This will allow the natural airflow to help dissipate the smell.

2. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and can help neutralize the smell. Place a bowl of baking soda in each drawer, and leave it for a few days. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda and wipe down the drawers with a damp cloth.

3. Use Vinegar

Vinegar is another natural odor neutralizer. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and wipe down the inside of the drawers. Leave it to dry for a few hours, and then wipe it down with a damp cloth.

4. Use Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is an excellent odor absorber and can be found in most pet stores. Place a bowl of activated charcoal in each drawer and leave it for a few days. Afterward, discard the charcoal and wipe down the drawers with a damp cloth.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use a fan to increase ventilation.
2. Place dryer sheets in the drawers to help absorb the smell.
3. Use essential oils, such as lavender or citrus, to mask the smell.
4. Use a commercial odor neutralizer, such as Febreze.
5. Place coffee grounds in the drawers to absorb the smell.
6. Use cedar balls to absorb the smell and repel insects.
7. Place a bowl of kitty litter in the drawers to absorb the smell.
8. Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in the room.
9. Place a bowl of white vinegar in the drawers overnight.
10. Use a professional ozone generator to neutralize the smell.

Pros and Cons

The pros of getting rid of the wood smell are obvious. The unpleasant odor can be overwhelming and distracting, making it difficult to enjoy the dresser. Additionally, some people can be sensitive to the chemicals used in the treatment and preservation of the wood.

The cons of getting rid of the wood smell are minimal. Some people enjoy the natural scent of wood and may find that the neutralizing methods remove that smell as well. However, there are natural methods, such as essential oils, that can add a pleasant scent back into the dresser.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After trying different methods, I found that using a combination of baking soda and activated charcoal worked best for me. I placed a bowl of baking soda in each drawer for a few days, and then replaced it with activated charcoal for a few more days. Afterward, I wiped down the drawers with a damp cloth, and the smell was gone.

My suggestion is to try different methods until you find one that works for you. Everyone’s experience with the wood smell may be different, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Question & Answer

Q: Can I use scented candles to mask the smell?

A: While scented candles can add a pleasant scent to the room, they may not be strong enough to mask the wood smell. Additionally, burning candles in a small, enclosed space can be dangerous. It’s best to use a natural odor neutralizer, such as baking soda or activated charcoal.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to get the wood smell out of a dresser?

A: The time it takes to get rid of the wood smell depends on the severity of the odor and the method used. Airing out the dresser can take a few days, while using baking soda or activated charcoal can take up to a week.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean the inside of the drawers?

A: No, bleach can damage the wood and may not remove the smell. Stick to natural methods, such as baking soda or vinegar.

Q: Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the process?

A: While a hairdryer can help dry the inside of the drawers, it may not be strong enough to dissipate the smell. It’s best to let the drawers air out naturally or use natural odor neutralizers.