Books are so much more than printed pages and ink—they’re companions, storytellers, and little time capsules of memories. But like well-loved things, they can gather dust, stains, and even a nasty musty odor with time. The good news? With a little TLC, they will be back to life!

Here are some simple tips for cleaning your books and keeping them looking good for years to come:

Step 1: Dust Off the Dust Bunnies

Before tackling any deep cleaning, this is what to start with: dust removal. Take a soft microfiber cloth (or a clean cotton t-shirt in a pinch) and gently wipe the cover, spine, and edges while the book remains tightly closed. For stubborn dust on page edges, lightly brush it off with a soft brush. One pro tip? Never blow your books— your breath is moist and can make the dust stick even more.

Step 2: Removing Stains the Proper Way

Whether it’s from coffee rings or greasy fingerprints, books have their fair share of battle scars. Here’s how to make them presentable again without ruining them:

• Covers: Glossy covers? A slightly damp cloth with a teeny bit of dish soap does the trick. For fabric or leather covers, use only a dry cloth or a cleaner made specifically for leather.
• Pages: Paper is fragile, so be cautious with stains. To lift pencil marks, use a white eraser; for oily spots, use a slightly damp cotton swab to dab at the spots—do not rub! It takes time, but your book will thank you.

Step 3: Eliminate Stale Odors and Mold

Nothing can ruin a good reading session like a musty-scented book. If you spot mold, act fast! Leave the book in a dry, well-ventilated area, and then lightly brush off spores with a soft-bristled brush. To remove lingering odors, seal the book in a large plastic bag with an open box of baking soda—don’t let the baking soda touch the book! Maybe give it a few days, and the smell will disappear.

Step 4: Maintain Your Books Clean

Now that your books are clean, let’s make sure they stay that way. Keep them standing on a cool, dry shelf, out of direct sunlight (unless you’re a fan of the vintage yellowed-pages look). For rare or old books, you may also want to consider using acid-free book covers for an additional layer of protection.

The Importance of a Clean Book Collection

A well-cared-for book is nice to look at, but it’s more than that—it lasts longer, smells more pleasant, and is more fun to read. Whether it’s a beloved childhood novel or a find from a secondhand bookstore, giving your books some love makes sure they’ll be around for years of cozy reading sessions.

Need a Bigger Clean-Up?

Once you see how nice your books look, you may be prompted to clean everything else! And if cleaning your space seems daunting, we’ve got you covered. Let us deal with the dust and dirt so you can return to enjoying your home, your books, and your time. So book a cleaning with us today!