Cleaning Mold and Dust Without Damaging Labels or Packaging
Safe handling and cleaning steps that preserve value and avoid accidental damage.
Quick Answer
Mold on a wine bottle is actually a good sign! It means the storage environment was humid (good for corks). But cleaning it wrongly can ruin the value.
- Do NOT use water or wet rags on the label.
- Use a dry, soft brush or cloth to gently remove loose dust.
- Leave the label alone if the mold is embedded in the paper.
- Clean the glass only, avoiding the foil and label edges.
- Better yet: Let the buyer (us) clean it. We are professionals.
Is Mold Good or Bad?
In the wine world, 'cellar funk' is a badge of honor. High humidity (70%+) prevents corks from drying out, but it also promotes mold growth on labels.
- High Value: A bottle with a pristine capsule but a slightly moldy label (shows perfect provenance).
- Low Value: A 'perfect' looking label that was stored in a dry closet (risk of dried cork).
Cleaning Dos and Donts
If you must clean them for photos:
- DO wipe the glass shoulders and base with a barely damp cloth.
- DON'T touch the paper label with anything wet.
- DON'T use Windex or chemical cleaners (the smell can taint the wine via the cork).
- DON'T scrub the vintage date off the label.
Preserving the Label
The label is the 'Certificate of Title'. If you damage it, you damage the value.
- Nicknamed 'Bin Soiled', a dirty label is acceptable.
- A torn or 'washed out' label (where ink is blurry) is seen as damage.
- Rule of thumb: It is better to have a dirty legible label than a clean illegible one.
Common Mistakes
Trying to make old bottles look new.
- Soaking bottles in water (ruins value instantly).
- Wrapping wet bottles in plastic wrap (traps moisture and rots the label).
- Scrubbing the capsule foil (removes the patina).
What to Do Next
Prepare for sale.
- Take photos 'as is'. We appreciate the honesty of a dusty bottle.
- Mention 'passive cellar' or 'humid storage' in your notes.
- Pack them carefully—moldy labels are fragile and can rub off in shipping.
What to Do Next
Ready to get an offer for your bottles? Submit photos and details through our form, or text photos directly if that is easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mold affect the wine taste?
No. The mold is on the outside. The wine inside is sealed.
Can I use hairspray to save the label?
Some collectors use 'label preservers' (plastic stickers), but we prefer you don't. Original condition is best.
What if the label falls off?
Keep it! Put it in an envelope and rubber band it to the bottle. A loose label is better than no label.
Do spirits get mold?
Yes, but less common. Whiskey labels are often thicker paper. The same rules apply: keep them dry.
Will you deduct value for mold?
Minimal deduction for mold. Heavy deduction for ripped or water-damaged labels. Mold is expected on 50-year-old bottles.