How to Remove Mildew Smell in Furniture

Mildew smells sneak into furniture when it is stored improperly or used in dank or humid conditions. Prevention is best for mildew smells. Always dry outdoor furniture completely before storing inside for the winter season and store it in clean, dry areas. Once the mildew has sunk in, however, there are methods to treat it. Always spot test treatments before you use them on the entire piece to prevent discoloration of your furniture.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach Spray bottle Lysol Orange oil Clean rag Kitty litter Used nylons

Instructions

1. Cover any upholstered areas. Make a mixture of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water in your spray bottle. Take your furniture outside and spray down any raw wood (such as the inside of drawers, the bottom of a wood chair or the backs of cabinet doors).

2. Spray Lysol over the upholstered areas of the furniture, allowing it to saturate as deeply as possible. Let the furniture dry completely in the sun.

3. Apply orange or lemon oil to your clean rag and wipe down all non-upholstered areas of the furniture.

4. Make satchels of kitty litter using old nylons or other breathable fabric. Stash satchels in drawers, cabinets or underneath removable cushions. Replace kitty litter when the mildew smell starts to come back until the odor is eliminated.

Tips & Warnings

• Always spot test before you use any cleaners on your furniture to prevent discoloration. Store furniture with kitty litter or a bag of charcoal to help soak up humidity and offensive odors.

• Work with bleach water outside to ensure proper ventilation and to prevent getting bleach water on other items in your home.