Secondhand furniture is a smart and sustainable choice for your home, but sometimes those beautiful vintage or gently-used pieces come with an unwelcome guest: lingering odors. Whether it's a musty dresser, a couch with a smoky scent, or a cabinet that smells like old storage, unpleasant smells can ruin an otherwise perfect find.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through safe, effective, and easy ways to remove odors from secondhand furniture without damaging the materials. From natural deodorizers to professional cleaning strategies, you’ll learn exactly what to do to give your furniture a fresh start.

Common Causes of Furniture Odors

Before you start cleaning, it helps to know what you’re up against. Odors in used furniture typically come from:

• Moisture and mold trapped in wood or upholstery

• Pet accidents or lingering dander

• Smoke from previous owners

• Food spills that seeped into cushions or cracks

• Long-term storage in basements or garages without ventilation

Identifying the source of the odor will help you choose the right solution.

Step 1: Inspect the Furniture

Start by checking the materials involved:

• Wood pieces may have absorbed moisture or mildew

• Upholstered furniture can trap odors in fabric and foam

• Drawers and cabinets might have hidden smells deep inside

Open drawers, lift cushions, and look for signs of stains, moisture, or discoloration. Use your nose to identify which areas need the most attention.

Step 2: Vacuum and Wipe Down

Give your furniture a thorough initial cleaning:

• Use a HEPA-filter vacuum to remove dust, pet hair, and loose debris

• Wipe wooden surfaces with a soft cloth and mild soap solution

• For upholstered areas, use a lint roller or vacuum upholstery attachment

This first pass often reduces the odor and reveals what deeper cleaning is still needed.

Step 3: Use Baking Soda for Fabric and Drawers

Baking soda is one of the safest and most effective odor neutralizers.

• Sprinkle it generously over cushions or inside drawers

• Let it sit for 8 to 12 hours

• Vacuum or wipe it up thoroughly

Repeat as needed for stubborn smells. This method works well for general musty odors, pet dander, and minor mildew.

Step 4: Try a Vinegar Spray Solution

For deeper odors, white vinegar helps kill mold and neutralize strong smells.

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle

• Lightly mist wood or fabric (do not soak)

• Let it air dry in a well-ventilated space

Do a spot test first to avoid damage, especially on delicate upholstery or finished wood.

Step 5: Place in Direct Sunlight

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and odor remover. If weather permits:

• Set your furniture outdoors in a sunny, dry location

• Let it sit for a few hours (up to a full day)

• Rotate as needed to expose all sides

Avoid prolonged exposure if your piece has delicate finishes or dark fabric that could fade.

Step 6: Use Activated Charcoal for Hidden Odors

For enclosed areas like drawers, cabinets, or under cushions:

• Place activated charcoal pouches or bowls inside

• Leave them in place for 2 to 3 days

• Replace or refresh the charcoal as needed

Charcoal absorbs moisture and smells without masking them. It’s especially good for removing mildew or chemical odors.

Step 7: Essential Oils for a Fresh Finish

Once the odors are gone, you can use essential oils to leave behind a clean scent.

• Add a few drops of lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus oil to a water spray bottle

• Lightly mist upholstery or wood surfaces

• Avoid direct application or overuse

This final touch is optional but helps your furniture feel brand new.

Extra Tips for Wood Furniture

If the smell is still trapped in wood:

• Seal the piece with a clear varnish, shellac, or paint primer

• Focus on interior surfaces like drawer bases or backs of cabinets

• Consider products like KILZ primer designed to seal in stains and smells

Always use safe products and follow manufacturer instructions.

Avoiding Odors in the Future

Once your piece is fresh, keep it that way by following these habits:

Regular Cleaning

• Vacuum upholstery once a week

• Wipe down wood monthly with a dry or slightly damp cloth

• Check hidden areas for dust and moisture

Manage Humidity

• Use a dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate

• Keep furniture out of basements or closed storage for long periods

• Use furniture pads to elevate from the floor

Keep Pets and Smoke Away

• If you smoke, do so outside

• Use washable furniture covers for pet-friendly pieces

• Clean up pet accidents immediately

When to Seek Professional Help

If the smell persists after multiple attempts:

• Hire a professional upholstery cleaner

• Consider ozone treatment from a cleaning specialist

• Evaluate if internal foam or stuffing needs to be replaced

These options come at a higher cost but can rescue a valuable or sentimental piece.

Final Thoughts

Secondhand furniture can bring charm, character, and sustainability into your home, but unwanted odors are a common challenge. With a few careful steps, most smells can be removed safely and naturally, restoring the piece to its full potential.

At Reperch, we’re proud to offer pre-owned furniture that’s not only stylish and affordable but thoroughly cleaned and quality-checked. Each item is carefully inspected to ensure it’s ready for a second life in your space odor-free and full of potential.