How would YOU clean this hanging organizer?

[Loretta]

I have a similar hanging jewelry organizer that somehow got smushed up with some leaking shampoo in a bag during a previous household move.  Several of the bottom pockets now have a rusty goo in them.  I recently inherited some jewelry that I need to organize.  How would YOU recommend cleaning this? 

I am also interested in getting ideas on what to do with old fancy pocket watches, like what you would receive after 30-50 years with a company.

THANKS!

[Tabitha]

I have a similar hanging jewelry organizer that somehow got smushed up with some leaking shampoo in a bag during a previous household move.  Several of the bottom pockets now have a rusty goo in them. 

I'd put it under hot water in a laundry tub or bath tub and let it sit a bit to dissolve what dried soap/goo is willing to lift. Then I'd use a gentle scrubbing sponge in each pocket. Finally I'd probably use a real gentle abrasive (toothpaste, baking soda paste, etc) and my fingers to reduce any staining on the clear or backing plastic. Then hang it upside down to dry.
You're going to have to balance cleaning vs damaging. Good luck.

[AMandM]

I'd let it soak in warm sudsy water first.  It looks like it's made of vinyl.  If so, I'd scrub with an old toothbrush.  Then lots of rinsing and hang outside to dry if possible, so the sun can bleach it.

[bobechs]

Fire... clean it with fire.

You are looking for a 'use' for pocket watches that does not involve telling time?

I think we come from completely different tribes

[Loretta]

Fire... clean it with fire.

You are looking for a 'use' for pocket watches that does not involve telling time?

I think we come from completely different tribes

You're the one quoting the word "use" which I did not in fact USE.  Your tribe must be delightful. 

[pbkmaine]

I would put the organizer in the bathtub with warm water to soak.

As for the pocket watches, they make great long pendants on a chain, a cord or a ribbon:

http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/f34c/