How to Get the Musty Smell Out of Books and Why Pineapples Might Be the Secret

Books are treasures, but over time, they can develop a musty smell that can be off-putting. Whether it’s an old novel you found in a dusty attic or a vintage cookbook passed down through generations, that unpleasant odor can detract from the joy of reading. Fortunately, there are several methods to remove the musty smell from books, and while some are tried-and-true, others might surprise you—like the potential role of pineapples. Let’s dive into the details.

1. Air It Out

The simplest and most straightforward method is to let the book breathe. Place the book in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors on a dry, sunny day. Open the pages gently and fan them out to allow air to circulate. This method works best for mild odors and can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.

2. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and works wonders on musty smells. Place the book in a sealed container or plastic bag with an open box of baking soda. Leave it for a few days, and the baking soda will absorb the odor. For a more targeted approach, you can sprinkle a small amount of baking soda between the pages, but be cautious—too much can damage the paper.

3. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is another excellent odor absorber. Similar to the baking soda method, place the book in a sealed container with activated charcoal for a few days. The charcoal will draw out the musty smell without harming the book.

4. Freeze the Book

Freezing a book might sound unconventional, but it can be effective. Place the book in a sealed plastic bag and put it in the freezer for 24-48 hours. The cold temperature kills mold spores and bacteria that contribute to the musty smell. After removing the book, let it thaw and dry completely before handling.

5. Sunlight Exposure

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Place the book in direct sunlight for a few hours, but be careful not to overdo it. Prolonged exposure can fade the cover and damage the pages. Rotate the book periodically to ensure even exposure.

6. Essential Oils

For a pleasant-smelling alternative, consider using essential oils. Lightly dab a cotton ball with an oil like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus and place it inside the book’s pages. Close the book and let it sit for a day or two. The essential oil will infuse the pages with a fresh scent, masking the musty odor.

7. Cat Litter (Yes, Really!)

Unscented cat litter, particularly the silica gel variety, can absorb moisture and odors. Place the book in a container with cat litter for a few days. This method is especially useful for books stored in damp environments.

8. The Pineapple Theory

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Some people swear by the pineapple method. The idea is that the enzymes in pineapple can break down odor-causing compounds. While there’s no scientific evidence to support this, it’s worth experimenting with. Place a slice of fresh pineapple (wrapped in parchment paper to prevent moisture damage) inside the book for a day or two. The result might surprise you!

9. Prevent Future Odors

Once you’ve removed the musty smell, take steps to prevent it from returning. Store books in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Use silica gel packets or dehumidifiers to control moisture levels. Avoid storing books in basements or attics, as these areas are prone to dampness.

10. When to Seek Professional Help

If the musty smell persists or the book is particularly valuable, consider consulting a professional book conservator. They have specialized tools and techniques to restore books without causing further damage.

FAQs

Q: Can I use vinegar to remove musty smells from books?
A: While vinegar is a natural deodorizer, its strong smell can linger and potentially damage the book. It’s best to avoid using vinegar on books.

Q: Will these methods work on e-books?
A: E-books don’t have physical pages, so they don’t develop musty smells. However, keeping your e-reader clean and dry is always a good idea.

Q: How often should I deodorize my books?
A: It depends on how and where you store them. If you keep your books in a dry, well-ventilated area, you may never need to deodorize them. However, if you notice a musty smell, address it promptly.

Q: Can I use scented candles to mask the smell?
A: Scented candles can temporarily mask odors, but they won’t eliminate the underlying cause. Stick to methods that absorb or neutralize the smell for long-term results.

Q: Is the pineapple method safe for all books?
A: The pineapple method is experimental and should be used with caution. Always wrap the pineapple in parchment paper to prevent moisture damage, and test it on a less valuable book first.