What's the easiest way to remove a musty smell from old books?

Updated October 2026 · How we answer

Odor removal basics

Move the books to a dry room with good airflow, and keep them out of direct sun because it can fade covers. Brush off surface dust gently with a soft brush. Then place the books in a sealed bin with an open box of baking soda for several days, checking on them now and then.

Test a small hidden spot first with your chosen method, since inks and covers can react differently. Let the books dry completely before shelving them, because trapped moisture can bring the smell right back.

When to skip the job

Mold, water stains and a sticky feel are signs a book may be damaged beyond easy cleaning. Mold can spread to nearby items, so isolate affected books right away. In those cases, the time and risk often outweigh the resale value.

Pricing after cleaning

Describe any lingering smell honestly in your listing, since buyers appreciate transparency. Clean books in good condition can still sell at a fair price. Store them with silica packets or in a dry closet until they ship.

Keep a small log of which cleaning methods worked on which materials. Those notes save time on the next batch and help you judge what is worth the effort.

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