Oh my goodness, I totally feel your pain about that vintage suitcase! It’s such a common struggle when you’re trying to breathe new life into old treasures, especially when they come with that mysterious 'old house' smell. I've had my share of restoration mishaps, and dealing with a persistent stink and lifting fabric or cardboard can be incredibly frustrating. It sounds like you've hit a classic vintage restoration roadblock, and trust me, you're not alone! First off, that musty, 'old' smell is often caused by mold, mildew, or just years of trapped odors in the fabric and, yes, the cardboard underneath. You mentioned trying a Bissell, and while those are great for many things, for delicate vintage items, especially those with cardboard components like your suitcase, they can introduce too much moisture and cause more harm than good. I learned this the hard way too – sometimes a gentle approach is best, even if it feels less effective initially. Here’s what I’ve found helpful for tackling stubborn vintage smells and fragile restoration projects: 1. The De-Stink Strategy (When Airing Out Isn't Enough): Baking Soda Power: This is my go-to for almost anything smelly. Liberally sprinkle baking soda inside the entire suitcase, making sure to get into all the corners and crevices. Close it up and let it sit for at least a week, or even two. The baking soda acts as a natural odor absorber. After, vacuum it out thoroughly. You might need to repeat this process if the smell is really ingrained. Activated Charcoal: Similar to baking soda, activated charcoal is fantastic for absorbing odors. You can buy charcoal briquettes (ensure they are natural, not lighter fluid-infused!) or activated charcoal pouches. Place several inside the closed suitcase for an extended period. I’ve even used small bowls of fresh coffee grounds inside, closed up, for a few days to absorb general mustiness. Sunlight (with extreme caution!): While you mentioned your attempt in the sun led to lifting, indirect sunlight and fresh air can be good. The key is indirect and limited exposure. Direct, intense sunlight can dry out and damage materials, making glue brittle and causing fabric/cardboard to warp and lift, just like you experienced. Try airing it out on a covered porch or in a shady spot on a breezy day for a few hours at a time. Vodka Spray (unscented!): For fabric linings, a light mist of cheap, unflavored vodka can work wonders. The alcohol kills odor-causing bacteria and evaporates quickly without leaving a scent. Test it on an inconspicuous spot first! 2. Dealing with Lifting Cardboard and Linings: This is where it gets tricky, especially since you discovered cardboard underneath the fabric. Many vintage suitcases were constructed this way, making them susceptible to moisture damage. Assess the Damage: Carefully examine the lifting corners. Is it just the fabric delaminating from the cardboard, or is the cardboard itself warped and falling apart? If the cardboard is completely compromised, it’s a much bigger repair. Gentle Re-adhesion: For just lifting fabric or loose cardboard sections, a flexible, pH-neutral craft glue (like PVA glue or a good fabric adhesive) can work. Apply a very thin, even layer to the underside of the lifted section. Gently press it back down, using weighted objects or clamps (with parchment paper to prevent sticking) to hold it in place while it dries completely. Make sure not to over-saturate the cardboard. Trim Don't Tear: If there are frayed edges that simply won't re-adhere nicely, sometimes it's better to carefully trim them with a sharp craft knife to create a cleaner edge, rather than forcing a repair that looks messy or causes more tearing. 3. Prevention for Future Restorations (and what to look for when buying!): Know Your Materials: Always, always try to identify the underlying materials of a vintage piece before applying any liquids. Your experience with the cardboard is a perfect example of why this is crucial. If you suspect cardboard, be incredibly conservative with moisture. Spot Test Everything: Whether it's Goo Gone for stickers (which Hunter sounds like a pro at!) or a cleaning solution, always test it on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn't stain or damage the material. Professional Help: For very valuable or delicate pieces, or if you're truly stuck, don't hesitate to consult a professional restorer. They have specialized tools and knowledge to handle challenging projects. It’s a learning curve for sure, and every vintage piece tells a story, sometimes of our restoration struggles! Don't give up on making it Hazel's keepsake box; with a bit of patience and the right approach, you might still be able to save it. Good luck, and please share your progress!