The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I have 100+ of my great grandparents’ cylinders on display in my basement. That area has a distinct mold odor. While it reminds me of my grandparents’ basement, I don’t think it’s a great idea to introduce a mold source to the house. I think the mold is mostly in the containers. Is there a way to treat the containers without changing the appearance?

Are the cylinders themselves moldy? If they aren't, I'd say what you're smelling is mildew. Mold on or in the cartons would likely be black and would penetrate into the cardboard and cloth liner. Mildew would be lighter in color and be more of a surface growth, and more easily removed.

I have posted this suggestion before. However, no one seems to believe me.

You can easily buy planer and jointer shavings from juniperus virginiana (red cedar, sometimes Tennessee red cedar) at kennel and stable supply shops, and quite cheaply, too. The shavings are used on stable and kennel floors to keep down odours and fleas and ticks. They are rich in volatile oils that have powerful fungicidal and insecticidal properties. Ceder chests, lined with the juniper wood, were once common in households before central heating--they protected their contents from fungus and insects.

Store the cylinders in their boxes in a box with layers of shavings between them. Seal the box. Leave it for several months.

I have used the shavings and a tea made from them to kill mould and mildew infections on books, leather goods, 78s, lutes and guitars and their cases, guitar amplifiers, etc.

Lah Ca wrote: Thu Sep 26, 2024 9:34 am I have posted this suggestion before. However, no one seems to believe me.

FWIW, I believe you!

It’s not mold, it’s a chemical efflorescence caused by repeated/prolonged exposure to high humidity.