Removing Mildew From Paper and Books
In damp summer weather, keep papers and books as dry
as possible to help control mold growth. If you have an
enclosed bookcase, keep a small electric light lit
continuously in the bookcase or use a chemical
dehumidifier, keeping the doors closed as tightly as
possible.
Remove any dry, loose mold from paper with a clean,
soft cloth. If mildewed paper is damp, dry it first--in
an airy place, if possible.
To dry wallpaper, heat the room for several hours or
even days to dry the plaster as well as the paper. Plaster
should be dried slowly to prevent cracking.
If mildewed paper is washable, wipe it gently with a
cloth wrung out of thick soapsuds, then with clear water.
Take care not to wet the paper more than necessary. Do not
scrub it. Finally pat with a soft, dry cloth. If stains
remain, bleach with a solution of a household bleach, then
sponge with a cloth wrung out of clear water. For small
stains, a commercial ink eradicator may be useful.
Spread pages of books out fanwise to air. If the
books are very damp, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder
between the leaves to take up the moisture. Leave starch
or powder on for several hours then brush off.