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How To Get Rid of Mildew on Books

Treating mildew on books can be tricky. There are a number of methods for an amateur book conservator to try, but they have varying success rates. Frequently a book can't be saved and should be thrown away. Keep your books away from damp spaces like basements and excess humidity. If you encounter mildew on your books, wipe the boards, or covers, of the book with a soft cloth. Brush gently to remove as much visible mold and mildew as possible, then use one of the following methods to get rid of mildew on books.

Things You'll Need

Soft cloth
Soft brush
Plastic bags
Dryer sheet
Kitty litter
Baking soda
Microwave
Commercial conservation products

Instructions

- 1
  
  Fan the book open and lay it in the sun. After 45 minutes, move the book to a shaded area outside, keeping it fanned open. After an hour return the book to the sun for another 45 minutes. Check for mildew odor. If it persists, repeat the process.
- 2
  Place the book in a sealed plastic bag and put it in your freezer for several days. Periodically take the book out of the bag and check for mildew.
- 3
  
  Mask the odor of mildew by placing the book in a plastic or paper bag with a scented dryer sheet for a week.
- 4
  
  Sprinkle the pages with baking soda and set the book in the sun for an hour. Check for mildew smell and repeat if necessary. Riffle the pages to shake off most of the baking soda, then gently wipe them with a soft rag.
- 5
  
  Put 2 inches of kitty litter in the bottom of an ice chest with a tight fitting lid. Place the book in a paper bag so it's not resting directly on the litter and put the bag in the cooler. Close the lid and check the book in a week. Charcoal can also be used.
- 6
  
  Slip the book into a manila envelope and microwave the book for no more than 10 seconds if it has no metal staples.
- 7
  Take valuable books, or books that are special to you, to a book conservator. This is an expensive alternative, but may be the only way to save the book.
- 8
  
  Buy commercial products from library specialists that are made to remove mildew. Follow the directions carefully. These products include special cloths for wiping away mildew and sprays that kill the mildew.
- 9
  
  Fan the book open and slide it into a large plastic bag. Put a paper towel with about a tablespoon of bleach on it in a small container. Set this in the bag with the book. Be careful not to let the bleach touch the book. Seal the bag and check for mildew after a few days.

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