Removal of Musty Odor in Wicker Furniture
A musty odor on wicker furniture means it’s been stored in conditions that are somewhat too moist. Mold and mildew frequently go along with those musty odors, but on a the more positive note, the exact identical remedy that gets rid of this smell also eliminates mold and mildew.
A Dose of Dry Air
New, dry air removes moisture that contributes to musty, possibly moldy conditions. Air from the furniture in a protected area like a garage with an open door during non-humid, average weather. Once outside, dust the furniture with a feather duster, or use a brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter to help remove debris and loose mold spores. Wear a dust mask to avoid breathing in fine particles. Allow the furniture to dry out for several days in a space with decent airflow, so any breezes help eliminate odors and moisture.
White-Vinegar Wonders
Mix up your mold, mildew and odor eliminator by combining one part white vinegar with three parts water. Wipe the entire piece of furniture with a soft cloth dipped in the vinegar solution, wringing out most of the moisture. Wipe down cushions as well, as they probably smell musty when the wicker does. Allow all pieces to air dry at a non-humid place for several days. Keep the cushions off the furniture before both the wicker and cushions dry completely.
Banish It With Bleach
If the furniture is covered in mold and mildew specks, a bleach alternative is another way to take out the problem and the smell that goes along with it. Mix equal amounts of water and bleach in a bucket outside and wipe down the furniture with a rag dipped into the solution. Wear rubber gloves and old clothes to protect your hands and favored clothing. Treat difficult spots with an old toothbrush dipped to the bleach water. Wipe the furniture down again with a fresh moist cloth; then let it air dry for five or five days prior to using it. Otherwise, the wicker may warp and stretch. A bleach treatment may lighten the sticky, so check it in an inconspicuous area.
Preventing Odors
Wicker maintained in a moist or moist environment carries on a musty, less-than-fresh odor. Use or store your wicker pieces at a relatively arid area that receives both some daylight — keeping them at a dark, dank closet or shed with a leaky roof almost guarantees they will become musty and mildewed. If you live in a humid place, keep the furniture in an air-conditioned room or conduct a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
