Mildew Smelling Accordions : eBay Guides

One unfortunate Ebayer has reported having bought an accordion which was covered with Mould and mildew. It sounds as if this accordion was beyond simple help, at least without professional repair (with the requisite cost).

However, that being said, it can be easily treated in less severe cases. I have a used accordion which smelled like old plastic and leather when I first got it (Why do people store them in attics or basements?) and it was quite offensive and unpleasant. I couldn't play it in a public place. However if you remove the bellows and let them 'air out' for a week or so, they will often smell much better. I did this; and now play this one regularly and it smells fine. (keep it in a dust-free environment when it is 'airing out') To remove the bellows simply pull out the pins that connect the bellows to the body. Be careful and if in doubt as to how to do this, always get a repairperson's advice. There are some good web sites out there that will help too. Try a search.

Be sure to get the reeds checked on any used accodion before playing it for a long time. They often need waxing and tuning. Sometimes bad storage can make the reeds corrode and extremes of heat and/or cold can cause the wax that they sit in to 'let go'. This is easily fixed by an expert but "Kids; don't try this one at home" unless you really know what you are doing.

Happy playing and good luck with this most beautiful instrument.