How to remove smoke smell...?

[singlehum]

I just bought a used guitar that smells of cigarette smoke. It's not overpowering but it is there. What's the best way to remove the smell from the guitar and the case?

Thanks

[3of5]

I love this place.

[tbonesullivan]

First step is always to polish the whole guitar. I use preservation polish because that stuff eats through anything. The biggest problem though is the CASE. I would get a towel and get it damp, and then spray it with some 409 or somethign similar, and just rub the outside of the case. You'll get a lot of orange and yellow stuff off. I'd do this several times. THEN, get out some Formula 2000 or other vinyl protectant/restorer and treat the outside. that should help lift more oils and tar out.

For the inside of the case, first thing is to VACCUUM it. make sure you get all the compartments, corners, etc inside. You may want to consider using a carpet shampooer on the fuzz, but on the other hand the fuzz often isn't glued down very well, so that would be bad.

An the last thing you need is TIME. Leave the case open a lot. or prop it open a little and let it sit in the sun and get nice and hot to volatilize the nasties.

I have two guitar /guitar cases that have a lingering odor, but I can tell it's been a while since they have been in a smoking environment, and it's possible it's just the funk from live playing in bars. thankfully, they banned smoking in bars recently, so now I can go, enjoy a show, and actually taste the beer and food.

[Hfan]

Anyone ever have a case that came with an epoxy type smell? Bought a new G&L several years back and the case still has a lingering smell. Should have returned it. The guitar is fine once it's out for an hour or so.

[tbonesullivan]

have you tried just leaving the case open for a few weeks? that often helps.