How to remove smell from exposed plywood Bathroom cabinets

Question

Recently purchased an older home and the cabinets in the bathroom have an off smell that transfers into the towels as they sit in there.

There is exposed, unfinished plywood and I’m assuming it’s due to the moisture exposure over the years. No visible mold but just has a smell of old house in it.

What I’m wondering is if putting a layer of paint would block the smell or is there something more that would have to be done to get rid of it?

Answer 1

The best option if you're going with paint is a synthetic shellac primer, which provides an odor barrier without the cost of natural shellac. Shellac is widely used in refinishing furniture to prevent nasty odors like pets and cigarette smoke.