How do I clean the inside paper?

Dry brushing is the safest approach for original paper linings. Use a soft brush to sweep away loose dust and dirt. Never apply wet cloths or liquid cleaners. Moisture causes old adhesives to fail and encourages mould to grow behind the paper.

I have an old trunk that smells quite musty when I open it, so what is the best way to get rid of that damp smell?

Leave the lid open on a dry, sunny day. Fresh air and gentle sunlight draw out stale odours trapped inside the wood. Place a bowl of dry coffee grounds or baking soda inside the empty carcase for a week. These absorb lingering smells without leaving chemical residues behind.

Can these hold heavy modern blankets?

Most models support the weight of heavy winter bedding without issue. The flat base distributes the load evenly across the floor. Check the hinges before filling the lid section. Stuffed blankets push against the hinges and cause the metal to bend when forced shut.

My canvas trunk has some of the wooden slats missing on the top, is it difficult to find matching wood to repair this properly?

Finding exact matching timber requires patience. Salvage yards sometimes stock old pine or oak boards with the correct grain and weathered patina. Cutting the wood to size is straightforward, but bending it to fit a domed lid requires steam equipment. You might need a specialist to curve the new slats accurately. Try to save the original metal end-caps from the missing slats. Fitting old hardware over a new piece of wood helps the repair blend in.

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Antique Trunks from the 19th Century

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Antique trunks are heavy-duty, portable storage containers built from wood, metal, and leather, designed to protect personal belongings during long journeys by stagecoach, train, or ship.