What is that smell?

[firehydrant]

So, I have obtained my “Holy Grail of Double Edged Safety Razors”, a Gillette 1905 Double Ring. The razor and case are in good condition but I have a small problem. The inside of the case stinks to high heaven. It is an old somethingdiedaterribledeathandwenttohellandisrottingthere smell. I have been letting it air out for weeks and the smell has diminished but will not go away. Has anyone had any luck cleaning one-hundred and five year old velvet? I am afraid to try any chemical cleaners for fear of ruining the lining. Has anyone have any experience with cleaning these old cases?

 

[stoopidhead]

i think the case is damaged beyond repair, better just send it to me so it can be disposed of properly...

 

[faster_than_u]

I would like to know as well my single ring case smells like gross

 

[luvmysuper]

Roll up a fabric softener sheet and put it where the razor is supposed to sit and close the lid.
Leave it like that for a few days.
The smell is probably still in there, but it is well masked by the fabric softener sheet.

 

[mattbikes1]

Getting it professionally cleaned will do the trick. Or, ask a professional how to get the stink out.

 

[Uncle Erik]

I'd try leaving it open, out in full sunlight for a few days. Exposure to sunlight has a way of killing oddball fungi and various smells. And if it doesn't work, at least it won't cost you anything.

You might also want to see if there's an ozone chamber nearby. That'll cost, but ozone can obliterate the smell of smoke and other nasties.

 

[ramblin-wreck]

febreze

 

[luvmysuper]

I'd try leaving it open, out in full sunlight for a few days. Exposure to sunlight has a way of killing oddball fungi and various smells. And if it doesn't work, at least it won't cost you anything.

You might also want to see if there's an ozone chamber nearby. That'll cost, but ozone can obliterate the smell of smoke and other nasties.

Be careful about exposure to sunlight as that can have a detrimental effect on old fabric color.

 

[firehydrant]

Be careful about exposure to sunlight as that can have a detrimental effect on old fabric color.

The fabric is now brown. There are hints of the purple at the edges but it really needs to be cleaned. I was able to remove some of the dirt with a mild dish soap solution but I am fearful to try anything stronger for fear that I will destroy the velvet.

 

[Jaymo]

Febreeze. Maybe Simple Green. Maybe set it in a closed box with an open box of baking soda.
Mothballs????

 

[OldSaw]

Half cup of diesel fuel and a match... yeah, that oughta do it.

 

[Luc]

You could always freeze it. That too can get rid of bacteria, fungus...

I would try to clean it with a soft toothbrush. Dishsoap to start with. If it doesn't seem to do anything, fabric soap in warm water, soak and use the toothbrush again.

Note that I'm no professional cleaner.