How to Properly Clean and Care for Your Books

Books aren’t just objects—they’re companions, repositories of knowledge, and even cherished family members. But if you’ve been neglecting them, it might be time for a little spring cleaning.
Books collect dust, and that dust isn’t just harmless—it’s a mix of dead skin, mold, pollen, and microplastics. Over time, it can stain book pages and attract insects that burrow into your collection. Plus, dust impacts indoor air quality, which can affect your health.
The good news? Keeping your books clean is simple and requires minimal effort. Whether you have a few well-loved paperbacks or an entire home library, these tips will help keep your collection in great condition for years to come.
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Preventive Care: Protect Your Books from Damage
Choose the Right Storage Location
Where you store your books matters. Avoid:
✔ Basements and attics, where temperature fluctuations and moisture can cause mold and mildew.
✔ Steamy bathrooms, as humidity can warp pages and encourage silverfish.
✔ Direct sunlight, which fades book covers—spines are particularly vulnerable.
For the best preservation, store books in a cool, dry place with consistent humidity and temperature.
How to Properly Shelve Books
✔ Use bookends to keep books upright and prevent them from slumping, which can weaken their spines.
✔ Store heavy or oversized books flat to preserve their bindings.
✔ Avoid pulling books out by the spine—instead, push in the books on either side and grasp the one you want by its sides.
Keep Books Away from Dust and Pollutants
✔ Avoid placing books near air vents, as constant airflow can speed up wear and tear.
✔ Keep cookbooks out of the kitchen if possible—grease and heat can damage covers and pages.
✔ Store newspaper clippings separately—their ink can stain pages.
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How to Clean Your Books and Bookshelves
Regular Cleaning (Every Few Weeks)
Dusting regularly prevents buildup and reduces allergens.
✔ Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe book spines, tops, and shelves.
✔ Dust from top to bottom—start with the tops of books (the dustiest part), then the bottoms, then spines.
✔ Avoid sweeping or dry dusting near bookshelves—it stirs up dust that will settle back onto your books. Instead, vacuum with a HEPA filter or use a damp mop.