Wood furniture can smell musty sometimes. This smell is not nice. It can make a room feel old and dirty. But don’t worry! You can remove this smell from your furniture. Let’s learn how to make your furniture smell fresh again.
Why Does Wood Furniture Smell Musty?
Wood is a natural material. It can absorb moisture from the air. When wood gets wet, it can smell musty. This smell comes from mold and mildew. These are tiny living things. They grow in wet and dark places. They love to live in wood furniture.
Sometimes, old furniture smells musty too. This is because it has been in a damp place for a long time. The smell gets trapped in the wood. But you can remove it with a few simple steps.

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Things You Need
Before you start, you need some things. Here is a list:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Soft cloth
- Warm water
- Fan
- Sunlight
- Essential oil (optional)
These things will help you remove the musty smell.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Musty Smell
Follow these steps to make your furniture smell fresh:
Step 1: Clean The Surface
First, clean the surface of the furniture. Use a soft cloth and warm water. Wipe away dust and dirt. Make sure the cloth is not too wet. Wet wood can get damaged.
Step 2: Use Vinegar
Vinegar is great for removing smells. Mix vinegar with equal parts water. Dip a cloth in the mixture. Wipe the wood with the cloth. The vinegar will help kill mold and mildew.
Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda absorbs bad smells. Sprinkle it over the wood. Leave it for a few hours. Then, wipe it off with a dry cloth. Your furniture will start to smell better.
Step 4: Air The Furniture
Place the furniture in a sunny spot. Sunlight helps kill mold and mildew. Open windows and doors to let fresh air in. A fan can help too. Let the furniture dry for a few days.
Step 5: Add Fresh Scent
If you want, add a nice smell. Use a few drops of essential oil. Lavender or lemon works well. Put it on a cloth and wipe the wood. Now, your furniture smells fresh and nice.
More Tips to Keep Furniture Smelling Fresh
Here are some extra tips. They will help keep your furniture smelling good.
- Avoid placing furniture in damp places.
- Use a dehumidifier in rooms with wood furniture.
- Clean your furniture regularly to prevent mold.
- Use furniture polish to protect the wood.
These tips will keep your furniture smelling fresh longer.

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Frequently Asked Questions
How To Remove Musty Smell From Wood Furniture?
Use white vinegar. It neutralizes odors effectively. Simply wipe the surface with a damp cloth soaked in vinegar.
Does Baking Soda Work On Wood Odors?
Yes, it can. Sprinkle baking soda on affected areas. Leave it overnight. Then vacuum or wipe off.
Can Sunlight Help Eliminate Musty Smells?
Absolutely. Sunlight kills mold spores. Place furniture outside for several hours to absorb sunlight.
Is Charcoal Effective For Odor Removal?
Yes, charcoal absorbs odors well. Place bowls of activated charcoal near the furniture.
Conclusion
Musty smells in wood furniture are common. But you can remove them easily. Use vinegar and baking soda. Air the furniture in sunlight. Add a nice scent with essential oils. Follow these steps to enjoy fresh-smelling furniture.
Now you know how to make your wood furniture smell better. Try these tips today!