How to Remove the Smell of Fire Damage From Wood Furniture
- 1). Place the piece of wood furniture onto a square of plastic sheeting or old towels. This will prevent residue from marring the floor of the work area. You may also choose to work out of doors when the weather is clear and calm.
- 2). Put on a pair of work gloves to protect your hands. The wood may be split or blistered from the damaging heat of the fire. Carefully wipe the entire surface and legs of the piece of furniture with soft cloth rags. Wipe the residue from the bottom of the piece. This will remove the top coat of ash, fire extinguisher by-product and smoke film from the wood.
- 3). Read the directions and warnings on a container of mineral spirits before opening it. Pour 1/4 to 1/2 c of mineral spirits into a small, wide-mouth, jar. Cover the jar with a tight lid when the contents are not in use.
- 4). Dip a cotton swab into the jar of spirits. Rub the surface of the piece of furniture with it. Carefully dip the swab into any carved or joined portions of the wood to remove any odorous residues that are embedded in the indentation. Change swabs frequently and apply clean mineral spirits to the wood.
- 5). Pour mineral spirits from the original container onto a clean, lint-free cloth. Wring out any excess liquid from the cloth. Wipe down all of the surfaces of the piece of furniture two to three times.
- 6). Apply a scented furniture polish to the piece of furniture according to product directions. Use polish and a lint-free buffing cloth that is recommended for the type of wood in the piece of furniture.