I have a book that has some black smudges on the back.  I don't know what they are (I got the book with them, this is not an excuse ;) ) but they don't seem to rub off.  Also, the cover of the book has an odd feel to it  - kind of waxy, maybe these two facts are related.  Anyway, does this count as staining? Does anyone have any ideas as to what could rub them off without damaging the book?

Thanks! 

Mimi - Why don't you post a pic? I think it's difficult to know by your description whether the book is postable or not.

Will do when I get home, thanks 

Ugh, I hate those waxy covers--they start to peel at the edges right away and look horrible. Maybe they're supposed to be waterproof or something but they need to find a way to keep them from peeling.

Diane

If someone would be so kind as to advise on how to upload a photo into my post, I'd be most appreciative. Thanks!

If the smudges look like they could be ink, I wouldn't call it staining.  I've had books purchased new end up with ink smudges as I read them.  Thumbs and fingers get a small amount of ink on them and transfer to the back of the book as I switch hand and figure positions to avoid cramping.  Usually mmpbs.

Posting method that works for me:  From your online source, right click the picture and choose the "view image' option, then on your browser control bar under 'Edit' choose 'select all', then copy and past as usual (control/c = copy, control/v = paste).  To adjust picture size, click on the picture then use corner handles:

Generally, TPTB have indicated that printing errors (and such) are postable if the text pages are readable.  Stains after printing are not postable.

Some members have reported success by lightly rubbing the cover with Goo Gone or Simple Green.  Be careful not to get the cover too damp or you can cause liquid damage.  Many covers have that light plastic coating tho, so if you are careful they can be gently wiped down with a damp (not wet) cloth.

Great, thanks!

I've had sucess removing some marks/smudges on a glossy cover with a pencil eraser.

Mimi,  Our family bookstore deals with lots of 'waxy' books. You can pick up a bottle of an oil based cleaner called "Goo-gone" in most home improvement and large department stores. Place one or two drops on the cover, and wipe it down with a soft cloth or papertowel until completely dry, you will see lots of residue and other 'ick' come right off . 

Its also great to let a couple drops soak on top of a nasty sticker or a patch of stickiness for a few minutes before scraping it off with a penny (scratch card style, be gentle on the cover though!). The book will look considerably nicer afterward

A bottle usually lasts me a few months (and hundreds of used books needing a touchup before they are shelved). Its also removes dust, the yuck gritty feel from sitting in open yardsales and flea markets and other book-abuse other readers dont care to inherit. :)

Thank you, Shandee. I have "Goo-Gone"'s scrapbooking sister product "Un-Du" which should work well with that system.

Thanks! Thank you for the pencil eraser tip too,  Lsressler