Can anyone tell me what kind of cabinet this is?
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I was recently given this very smelly old cabinet. I do not know what it's original use could have been. It is in very bad condition and has the most horrible smells. I would like to know more about it but cannot find any information on the abused cabinet. It's carved designs suggest early art deco. It doesn't seem tall enough to be an adult chifferobe or as we call them, an armoire. It is only five feet tall.
13 answers
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Looks like the old wardrobes that are brought over from Europe in containers and sold at auctions here in the US.
Steve
on Apr 26, 2015
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armoire, for use back in the day when houses did not have built-in closets. Try pouring used dry coffee grounds in it to absorb smells, and let it sit in sunshine for a day to kill any mildew. Turn it during the day so the sun shines on all parts.
Tabby
on Apr 26, 2015
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You are so lucky! I am 66 and remember seeing these huge old chifferobes...what my Southern family called them...in all bedrooms in my grandparents big, old house. No closets were built in. I've often wondered what happened to those through the years.
Gretchen Mercer
on Apr 26, 2015
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That is for sure an old wardrobe, fantastic piece and I love that era in furnishing Victorian, I have a few pieces from the same era in my home. Love it, and yes it could be a wonderful piece
Lee Cunningham Green
on Apr 26, 2015
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It's an armoire for sure remember that people were not as tall as they are now.
Christine King
on Apr 26, 2015
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You also might try cleaning it with baking soda and letting a box sit in it like a fridge deodorizer. It may smell because the later owners kept guns in it gunpowder smells bad. The furs also might have been stored. Good luck!!!
Lindestorme McMahon
on Apr 26, 2015
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You can get rid of odors in a closed drawer, closet with ammonia. Put about 1/2 cup in a glass cup or bowl and set inside the drawer, etc at least overnight. You may have to do 2 or 3 times to get rid of it. I usually buy the lemon scented.
Linda
on Apr 26, 2015
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Thanks to all who answered my questions. This one had me stumped. But now I can go forward and make her a beautiful addition to someone's home. sk
SK on Elderberry
on Apr 26, 2015
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Lucky you! It's gorgeous, or can be with a little work!
Katrina Warren
on Apr 26, 2015
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it could be for a childs room
Linda Marlene Marshall Banhart
on Apr 26, 2015
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Just make sure you remove all of the odors before you start the re-finishing process! I learned the hard way...
Country Design Home
on Apr 27, 2015
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One more answer-and I'm VERY late to this party. Yes, the piece is I believe from the Art Deco period taking a clue from the carving on the doors. Activated charcoal also will remove the smell in about a week. Also a mixture of: 1/4 c. boric acid, 1/2 c. white vinegar, 1/2 c. hydrogen peroxide, 1 c. water. Wash down interior and let it sit in the sun. Make sure there is no rain in the forecast of course! Please post the finished project!
Lindy
on Aug 15, 2015
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It looks to me like an old wardrobe used before we had larger or any closets.
Mike
on Dec 21, 2015
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