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cleaning a smelly 1940s Smith Corona case

5ushimaster

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Joined
Dec 10, 2025
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I just scored a beautiful 1940s Smith Corona silent sterling typewriter with case! The machine is gorgeous, but the case? Yikes.
It smells awful (definite mildew/musty bomb!), has spider droppings all over the leather, and the internal plastic dust cover is coated in some sticky film.
I've aired it out in the sun, but now it needs a deep clean. Should I try a DIY cleaning method on the leather and lining, or is this a job for a professional cleaner? I desperately need tips on getting rid of that mildew funk!
 
this might sound weird, but try getting a bottle of cheap vodka, put it in a spray bottle and carefully spray the case
this is a trick we used for freshening up theatrical costumes. might be work
 
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