Dry cleaning sponge

Recently the representative of a duct-cleaning company visited us to
give an estimate on the cleaning cost for our ducting. We had called
on the company in response to our mold outbreak, which we were told
was caused in part by dirty HVAC ducting.

Before he left he showed me how to clean much of the mold on our
books with a "Dry cleaning sponge" which he said was not treated
with any chemicals, did not damage the covers, and did not introduce
any foreign substance into the books. I must say, it removed the
mold very effectively with one wipe, quickly and without having to
use any liquids.  When the  sponge becomes soiled all around, it can
be re-used after washing and air drying.

Do any of you use these sponges, and if so, what is your experience
with them. Are they effective beyond just a quick fix? Since most of
the wet methods of fighting mold also do not necessarily prevent
mold from reappearing, is this sponge a viable alternative?

I have not heard of this product before, and in the recent
discussions about mold on this list, these sponges have not been
mentioned. At least not that I remember. I will be very interested
in your responses.

Margit J. Smith, Asst. Prof.
Head of Technical Services
Copley Library, Univ. of San Diego

                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 12:88
                   Distributed: Tuesday, May 18, 1999
                       Message Id: cdl-12-88-011
                                  ***