Removing Musty Book Smell

I buy a lot of old books. Sometimes, the stale musty odor is just too nasty to overcome. That's why I was glad to read a hint from Heloise on how to get that smell out. And it's as simple as sprinkling baking soda through the pages.

You can use baking soda or cornstarch. Sprinkle it on the pages, place the book in a Ziplok bag and let it set, sealed, for a week. Then just remove it from the bag, shake the powder out, and the book should smell normal.

However, do NOT use baking soda on antique or damp books because it might harm old paper.

Takeaway Truth

A bargain book is only a bargain if it pleases all the senses.