Stephen Kent Goodman asked:

> Does anyone have any suggestions for getting rid of
> the smell of mice urine and feces in a player piano?

My method which you can adapt freely.  Wear gloves, as mouse feces,
etc., have been linked to viral outbreaks.

1.  Remove source of odors, as much as practical.  A vacuum cleaner
with HEPA filter is best as you do not want dust particles kicked
up into the air.  Water-filter vacuums (like Rainbow) are inadequate,
as many particles go right through (just like smoke through a
waterpipe/bong/hookah).  _Do not_ use a blower to blow out the stuff;
it's dangerous to you and the instrument.

2.  If possible, use a good scraper (paint scraper or cabinet scraper)
to remove surface soiling.  Vacuum again.

3.  Dip a clean cloth in vinegar (acetic acid solution), wring out
dry, and rub down the places of soiling.  Turn rag frequently.  Rinse
in clear water, wring out, and dip into vinegar, etc. so soil does
not get returned to the clean vinegar.  (I use white vinegar which
is synthetic; it's pure ascetic acid solution.  You may want to try
"cider vinegar" as this is cultured from natural sources and may contain
helpful enzymes.)

4.  After area is thoroughly dry, give a coat of shellac.  A wipe-on
coat or brush-coat will work.  Do not use a spray coating unless you're
dealing with an empty piano case.

This method appeals to me much more than trying to mask the odor by
adding "little smellys" like potpourri, mothballs, etc.

Robert Linnstaedt