Cleaning and Stain Removal - Removing Smoke smell from Oak dining set

Hi All,

This week I got a great deal on an used solid oak dinette set. The previous owner purchased it in 1986. It's in terrific shape for its age.

The problem is that I realized, when I got it home, that it reeks of smoke and I'm sure not all what else. It's got a noxious weird sickly-sweet smell coming off it in addition to the normal smoke smell. You should also know that the previous owner had dogs and cats, but I haven't smelled any of the usual cat/dog odors of which they are capable.

The first thing we did when we got it home was to clean the entire set with Murphey's Oil (I figured it was a place to start). That helped a bit. The next morning I put the set out on the back patio and left it in the sun and breeze all day. I don't know it that helped any.

I need suggestions, please, as to how to get rid of the smells so we can stand to be around this set. Thanks for any help!

Again Ozone is the best way to get rid of odors.

Thanks, Airman, for your help & input. I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with Ozone- I'm new to these forums.

Could you tell me where I can find more info, please?

Thanks again!

i would consider refinishing the set..sand, stain, poly

ozone converts the air in the applied area to ozone..which helps destroy odors...but you would not be able to be in the area during treatment..as it would pose health concerns...also depending on the area it can be costly to rent

Thanks, Airman, for your help & input. I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with Ozone- I'm new to these forums.

Could you tell me where I can find more info, please?

Thanks again!

Doc got your question answered I think. Should be under $100 a day. I think that is cheaper than refinishing it.

You would probably be able to encapsulate it if you decide to go the ozone route. Some cheap plastic drop cloths with the seams sealed with tape.

And you'll be helping the ozone layer! lol.. No, not really different stuff I think. And it can't get up that high.

Thanks, Docduck!

I had the opportunity to research Ozone since my last post and I do have some concerns about the risks and the costs. Honestly, I don't have the funds to rent an expensive machine. In addition, I understand [now] the process by which ozone destroys odors in the air, etc., but if the source of the odor still exists wouldn't it come back?

I've already self-addressed the ultimate probability that I'd have to refinish the set. I've carefully looked it over [again] since my last post and I can see some spots that the fam missed during the first Murphey's Oil go-over.

I've decided to take my time and give it one final thorough cleaning [if you want something done right, you gotta do it yourself]. If that doesn't take care of it, I'm resigned to refinishing.

Actually, it will be worth it if I have to do it. The set does have some minor wear in a few spots and it would make a beautiful set look brand new - that's not a bad thing! That's so much for your help! Beer 4U2

Ozone is a good tool..in the hands of trained staff. I usually do not suggest the ozone route to diy just due to health concerns. Plus 100 a day might not sound like much but when you take into consideration that you would have to vacate the area and the fact that it still may need refinishing to remove cosmetic flaws.

Plus a good "deal" is never really a good deal on used stuff.