Getting Rid of Musty Smell in Cloth Purse

I have a new Louis Vuitton hand bag in cloth, but it has sat for so long it has a old musky moldy smell. How do I get rid of smell without ruining the purse?

Thanks.

Jana

Answers:

Getting Rid of Musty Smell in Cloth Purse

I've never had to deal with a musty purse, so this is just a guess. I think I'd start by sprinkling baking soda in the purse, and then stuffing it with crumpled newspaper. Both are supposed to absorb odors. I'd close the purse and let it sit for several days to a week (it has been sitting this long anyway, right?). Then I'd empty it out, shaking vigorously and using a vacuum attachment to remove any excess baking soda.

If that improved the smell, but didn't completely remove it, I'd repeat. I wonder if a scented baking soda would work. I have a book with environmentally friendly cleaning recipes, and baking soda can be scented with a few drops of essential oils (just a few drops, and very thoroughly mixed in). The essential oil would help cover the musty smell, but I worry that it might cause spotting. I'd try that with some old fabric first, just to be safe.

Like I said, this is all just a guess, and it's where I would start. Good luck. I hope your purse smells better soon! (12/21/2010)

By Lisa

Getting Rid of Musty Smell in Cloth Purse

Ditto to mrs.story's idea. Bottom line, neither the baking soda or the crumpled newspapers could damage the fabric or purse so why not give it a chance?. A "guess" on my part, too, but can't even imagine how this could harm the purse or cloth. Good luck! (12/21/2010)

By Cindy