Gasoline Smell In Wooden Chest

Hi there

I'm a newbie to this site and am hoping someone will be able to help with a rather annoying problem.


I bought a 5 draw wooden chest from an online retailer of indian and asian furniture. I noticed a distinct smell of petroleum when I first opened the draws although assumed it would clear with some use. The smell is still there over 6 months later and as pungent as ever.

Does anyone know how to remove the smell?

And why is it there in the first place??

Thanks

TB

A petro-chemical smell? Must have been the sealer they used on the interior drawer wood. What I would do is to let the drawers air out a day outside, then wipe down with the juice from some lemons (that should neutralize it). See how that works! I would also considering sealing all the wood with a light coat of clear shellac after the air-out and lemon treatment.

Thanks for the advice, will try it out!