📚 Books

Books are porous and tend to collect fine dust between pages. Cleaning success depends on whether there’s visible mold growth or just surface contamination.

If no visible growth:

1. Use compressed air or a hair dryer (cool setting) to air wash dust from edges and spines—outside only.

2. HEPA vacuum book covers and page edges.

3. Dry wipe covers gently with a microfiber towel.

4. Store in clean bins with desiccant packs if unsure about reintroduction.

If visibly moldy or musty-smelling: It’s best to let go or digitize and discard. Paper can hold contamination deeply and may continue to off-gas.

📄 Documents and Photos

Sentimental papers can be scanned or photographed, then stored digitally. If you must keep originals:

• Place them in archival-quality sleeves

• Store sealed in bins with silica packets

• Avoid placing them directly into your cleaned living space unless you’re symptom-free