Stinky old books?

[mattemma04]

I avoid old books since the smell gives me a headache,but yesterday I came across an old organic gardening book at the resale store.It is great,but ofcourse it gave me a headache as I read it.

Anyone have any remedies they have used to remove the odor?

[bigteamug]

Do all old books give you headaches, or just some? It may be that some have mold/mildew issues that are affecting you.....would it also be possible to get the info on the book and borrow it or inter-library-loan it at your library rather than buying it? A book kept in a library may be better maintained and not have as much odor.

If you're set on buying it, you can try sun - open the book outside in the sun, and turn a few pages now and then. If it is damp or going to rain, (or if you live in a really humid part of the country) this is not a great idea.

One library I worked at used Lysol spray for the stink of some books that came back from a shut-in's house reeking. But honestly, if the book is truly that stinky, the smell may be permanent. Those books they treated never got rid of all the smell....

I guess I'm just wondering what sets you off - is it old glue breaking down? That would be pretty hopeless to help.....mold/mildew or dust from poorly kept books?

[mattemma04]

Thanks for the suggestions.I will try them.

I am bothered by the musty smell of many books. I have gotten rid of most things,but I really want to keep this organic garden book,and I have a cat book from sweden that is cute but stinky.

I will try what you suggested and a few other things I found online.Hopefully I can salvage the books.If not I guess I will give them up after a while!