Questions: Musty Instrument Odors

by Ed Pastor

Originally published in American Lutherie #66, 2001

Kelly Johnston from Cleveland, OH asks:

Is there a safe way to get a musty smell out of an old and valuable guitar?

Ed Pastor of Hemphill, TX answers:

Make a sachet of cedar shavings (Western red or Tennessee cedar should work) in a piece of panty hose or fine gauze, place inside of soundhole if one is present; if f-holes are present, squeeze the sachet into one of the holes and suspend for several days to a week. If there is a case with the instrument, place it in direct sunlight outdoors for at least four hours and then place a small sachet of cedar shavings in the case. ◆