There's a massive, bloated, decomposing animal in my living room

[Neecy]

...well, at least that's what it smells like. I ordered an African balaphone from Ghana for my nephew's Christmas gift (he's a drummer), and it arrived today. I opened the box and from the very first waft was certain they'd included a dead animal in the box - it's really repulsive. The thing has a nasty, rancid, month-old-roadkill smell that's very strong. It's about to choke me.

Does anyone know anything I can spray on this damn thing to get rid of the smell? It's made out of wood, dried gourds, leather and what appears to be a dead bird smeared on the base (possibly feathers). I'm very close to spraying lighter fluid on it and lighting a match, but any alternatives would be helpful.

[Liberal Veteran]

1. I thought Ashcroft had come for a visit....

:)

[XNASA]

2. I'm reminded of the Frank Zappa quote:

"Jazz is not dead. It just smells funny."

[SaintAnne]

3. fabreeze,

it might help. maybe a lot of plastic baggies

[legally blonde]

4. candles? plug ins?

I wouldn't spray anything on it, because it might ruin the leather, but room deoderizer might help.

[Kathy in Cambridge]

5. Vinegar and lemon juice diluted in water

will take the stink out of most things

[yankeeinlouisiana]

6. Try baking soda.

Put an open box of baking soda in the box with the drum and tape it shut. Hopefully, be 12/25 the baking soda will absorb the odor and the drum will be fine.

Good luck!

[Ima]

7. ROTFLMAO

I thought you were in a fight with your S/O by the title.

[Neecy]

8. thanks for the suggestions

I think I'll try the baking soda thing first. I just know I have to do something, and fast.

And y'know, it probably DOES smell exactly like Ashcroft.