Q&A for How to Dry Wet Paper

It really depends on the conditions. Paper will dry a lot faster (e.g., within minutes to hours) in a cool, dry environment, or if you help it along with a fan or blow dryer. If the environment is too humid, it will take much longer for the paper to dry, and mold could develop.

If you have a wet notebook, you can use the same techniques you would for drying out any other book—spread it out on a flat surface in a dry, cool space and set up a fan to help circulate air over it. A portable dehumidifier will also help. Avoid using the microwave, since this could burn the paper or create dangerous sparks if your notebook has metallic spiral binding.

Unfortunately, oven-drying wet paper is likely to cause it to warp. And, if you’re not careful, it could get singed. Books are especially vulnerable, since the binding often contains adhesives that can melt under high heat. It’s better to use low-heat methods, like fans and blow dryers.

About 2 - 4 hours, depending on the thickness of the paper.

Place the papers in a rack with a large surface area. After that, wait for five hours and then check the papers.

Yes, it is okay to blow dry the paper. Just don’t hold the blow dryer too close to the paper.

Wait until the water is fully frozen, i.e., when it becomes fully ice. This may vary depending on other things in your freezer, so there is no single correct answer.