Smelly gun safes: what's the cause? (Article Sample)

Smelly gun safes: what's the cause?
by Jessica B. Eyao
Sean Tirman/HICONSUMPTION
A gun safe should be a place of security - not a source of powerful, lingering odors. Stale smoke, moldy rags, and musty moisture can all find their way into gun safes, creating an unpleasant smell that can linger and make firearms difficult to access or store.
If you've ever experienced a powerful smell coming from your gun safe, you know how unpleasant and embarrassing it can be. Thankfully, there are some common causes of a stinky gun safe that can often easily be solved with just a little detective work and elbow grease. Keep reading and I’ll give you an in-depth look at the possible sources of this problem, so you can make sure your gun safe stays stink-free!
Rust
Most gun safes are made from steel, which is an excellent material for keeping your firearms secure but unfortunately can easily rust over time. This causes the gun safe to start releasing an unpleasant odor that can linger in the room until you find the source and address it. The good news is that with proper maintenance and cleaning, you can keep a high-quality steel-made gun safe and in top shape for years and prevent it from smelling bad.
Humid area
If you've noticed a musty smell coming from your gun safe, humidity is one of the most likely culprits. Keeping your gun safe in a damp or humid area can cause the right conditions for mold and mildew to take hold, leading to an unpleasant odor. Make sure to check your gun safe regularly and keep it away from moisture-prone areas to protect it and prevent any nasty smells.
Uncleaned gun
It's natural for gun safes to accumulate dirt and dust over time, especially if you rarely clean them. This can lead to an unpleasant odor that may fill your safe or even the room around it. Avoiding this is easy - just clean your gun safe regularly. A simple damp cloth should do the trick - use some mild detergent if there's a grime build-up. Cleaning periodically not only keeps your gun safe and smelling fresh but also helps protect its contents from damage due to environmental elements like moisture and rust.
Old or damaged gun
If your gun safe is starting to smell, it could be because it's gotten old or maybe even suffered some damage. Whatever the cause, the scent can be more than just unpleasant - it can also add a layer of risk for anyone who uses the gun safe. Not only does the stink become an unwelcome part of your home’s atmosphere, but odors can also play a part in corroding metals and even discoloring fabrics. Make sure to keep your gun safe functional, dry, and clean in order to avoid any problems with an odor that may arise out of its deterioration over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you put in a gun sa