Q&A for How to Remove the Mildew Smell from Books

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Add New Question

Question

Can old, very dark, untyped photos be restored?

Kimberly Jackson

Community Answer

Yes. There are photo huts and freelancers who specialize in this area. Look at their portfolios before hiring.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 5
Question

Does this method kill the mold, or just reduce the odor? Is this a solution for someone physically sensitive to the mold? If not, can you recommend alternatives?

Canasta

Community Answer

As a used bookseller, the method I have most commonly encountered is to place the book in a plastic box of dry, yes unused, cat litter, and close the box with the lid. Leave the book in for several days and, theoretically, the dry clay cat litter will help neutralize the moisture and the odor.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 35 Helpful 31
Question

What should I do to rescue wet photos that are stuck together?

Community Answer

If they are dried and stuck together. they can be submerged in a pan of cool water until they absorb enough to be able to peel apart. You can start to peel them apart while still submerged. It's like peeling off a sticker. Once the peel begins without tearing, it gets easier as long as you continue to peel slowly. Peeling too quickly will rip the surface of the photo away from the backing. If they are not beginning to peel, submerge for a few more minutes until they soften. You could also apply water between the sticking surfaces with an eyedropper.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 21 Helpful 15
Question

How can I remove the musty odor from old photos?

Community Answer

To remove the musty odor from old photos, try airing them out and using baking soda, activated charcoal, coffee grounds, cat litter, dryer sheets, silica gel packets, or indirect sunlight. Be patient, as it may take time for the odors to dissipate.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

How do I remove mold and odor from rare books?

Community Answer

It depends on the material. Some mold-killing substances that are safe for clothbound books and paperbacks can damage leather. There are also types of mold that only affect leather-bound books, and the type of paper can influence the approach. Your best bet is to contact an archive or rare books library, such as those at nearby universities, and ask for their advice on the specific book you have.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0