Musty odor on old Barbie dolls. What's the best way to fix this without ruining the doll?

Answer 1

I would never use lysol on vintage doll - you'll get a lysol smelling musty doll. The best way - albeit it takes a long time is to put the doll in a closed container of baking soda. Replace the baking soda as needed.

If there are musty stains, there is a product called Twinpines. They sell on-line. Unscented extra strength clearasil also works. Do not get it near the eyes, or it will bleach them out.

Remove the earings from any vinatge doll- as the metal reacts with the plastic and turns the ears green, which is very difficult to remove,

Answer 2

I called up my mother on this one, who's collected dolls all her life. This comes from her. Normally if there is a musty odor on a doll, it's usually trapped in the hair or clothes. Take the clothes from the doll, and lay the doll and clothes side by side. Then spray OVER (not directly on) the doll and clothes with a fine mist of lysol spray and let it settle on the doll & clothes. That will neutralize any mildew. Let it dry thoroughly. It won't hurt the clothes. Take a damp cloth and carefully wipe the body. Dry with a soft cloth. Then let doll and clothing air out separately for a day or two before re-dressing the doll. That's all. Hope it helps.

Answer 3

Use this stuff called Approach. You can get it online at www.approachit.net It's water-based and made for people/things that are chemically sensitive. I use it for my pets and to keep musty odors out of my basement. Should clear things up easily and quickly.

Good luck!