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How to remove odor from books

by: touch-of-earth( 165Feedback score is 100 to 499) Top 5000 Reviewer
93 out of 96 people found this guide helpful.
Guide viewed: 8807 times Tags: disinfectant spray | odor removal | cat litter | mildew | books


If you have purchased a musty or smoky smelling book from someone, here are some tips for eliminating those awful odors.  But before you use any of the recommended treatments, please wipe off any dry, or loose mold, mildew or other foreign substances from the boards of the book with a soft cloth.

  • Tip #1 - Submerge book in dry deordorized (unused) cat litter for a week or two in an airtight container (plastic bag or a box sealed with tape).
  • Tip #2 - You can also use baking soda instead of the cat litter  listed above but book does not have to be submerged because baking soda will naturally absorb the bad odor by being in the same container. 
  • Tip # 3 -While fanning book upside down, spray lightly with Lysol spray (aerosol type). Store book in zip lock plastic bag or a plastic bag with a twist tie for two or three days.
  • Tip #4- Place a saucer of white vinegar inside the middle of a box.  Make sure box is about four to six inches  wider and taller than book. Next place 4 small objects around the saucer (thread spools, small glasses,etc.) inside the  box. Then place smelly book flat on top of the small objects so there will be  air flow completely around the book. Then seal box with tape and  let set for 8-24 hours. DO NOT ALLOW VINEGAR TO COME IN CONTACT WITH BOOK.  Expect the book to smell like vinegar for a day or two.  But its certainly better than having a musty or smoky odor. 

Depending on the severity of the odor, you might have to use several of these tips to fully eliminate the odor or you can use the same tip for a longer period of time.

 


Guide ID: 10000000000945954Guide created: 05/14/06 (updated 06/18/08)

 
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