How to clean your books

     I personally enjoy the charm of a well read book, often wondering what someone was thinking when they wrote in the book or turned a corner down.  Every little imperfection has a story of its own.  However, some of those imperfections may make the book look dirty and feel filthy.  There are a few easy basic ways to clean your old books to enhance the beauty of them.  

1. Start with a LINT FREE CLOTH, such as an old white t-shirt cut into smaller pieces, or an old linen dish towel.  This will allow you to wipe down the covers and pages without harming them.  If you prefer to use a store bought product, you could use an electrostatic cloth.  Just be sure it doesn't have a scent or any chemicals in the cloth.  
2. A SOFT BRISTLE TOOTHBRUSH will allow you to gently brush away debris caught in the covers and spine.  I would recommend a new unused one for your books to guarantee no other products or dirt is caught in the bristles.
3. An ARTGUM ERASER can aid in removing smudges from the book.  These erasers can be found in the artist supply section.  When using one, be sure you rub in one direction only, NOT back and forth.  
4. Paper is a perfect medium for absorbing smells.  Books can smell dusty, musty, molding and/or smoky among other smells.  I have had some books which have smelled like they had been drenched in perfume.  BAKING SODA OR KITTY LITTER would be a great first step to try in removing the odors.  Pour some in a sealable container , place the book on a stand or bowl, and close the lid.  Give it time.