new suitcase..... weird smell!!

[ilikecats85]

Hi All,
We are going to the Chicago area in about 2 weeks to attend the Navy boot camp graduation of my son. My husband decreed that since it was only a 3 day trip we would not check baggage but travel by carry on. Off to the mall to buy new carry ons. I bought 2 and they are a recognizable brand and will fit the bill but when I took out the stuffings I noticed this chemical-ish smell. It's not 'overpowering' but it is noticeable and I'd rather not have my clothing smelling like this.
Anyone experienced anything like this before? Any hints on airing these things out or am I doomed to return them and keep on shopping?
Thanks!

[ChristieinMB]

I'd just leave them open until your trip, spray some Febreeze (sp?) in there and don't worry.

[momqat]

Or throw in a couple of fabric softener sheets.

[gardenmom]

I just looked for new suitcases and passed on one because of the smell. My purchased choice is better, but, yuck- Plastic chemical smell! I will be watching these answers too.

[gardenmom]

I just looked for new suitcases and passed on one because of the smell. My purchased choice is better, but, yuck- Plastic chemical smell! I will be watching these answers too.

[JHaris]

What about one of the boxes of baking soda that one puts in the fridge? Put one in the suitcase and close the suitcase.

[Svadhisthana]

Crumpled newspaper does a really good job of absorbing odors. Good luck.

[jmarie]

Do a wipe off with a cloth lightly covered in white vinegar and see if that helps.
Joyce

[misskitty100]

Fresh ground coffee or a bar of soap would probably eliminate the smell.

We had to store our refrigerator unplugged for appox. 6 months while in between homes and I kept some coffee on a paper plate inside of it and it didn't get any sort of "funky" odor.

[ilikecats85]

thanks for all the suggestions-- so far I have febreezed it twice and let it dry and today I've put dishes of baking soda inside. I'm going to give the soda a few days and then see what the status is. I do feel like it is dissipating, just not as quickly as I'd like.

[rosen]

Can you set them outside in a shaded area. Prop them on their sides so any breeze can flow into/around them. Sealing them shut w/ baking soda/soap/coffee will not work as quickly as having them open for the smell to dissipate.