Are you doing your winter clean? Look inside for helpful information.
It is that time of year when visitor figures drop and there is time to do cleaning and maintenance. Here are some tips for cleaning.
Two things to always remember: 1) Always use a cleaning material which is softer than the material that you are cleaning. 2) Avoid using any chemical treatments unless you know what they are made from and that they will not adversely affect your object (both in the short and long term).
You will need: 1) A secure table from which you can reach the object without leaning over it. 2) Good lighting to work in. 3) Gloves for handling, dust masks if necessary, suitable protective clothing and safety equipment as you require. 4) Cushioning and support for the object so that it is not in danger of being knocked. 5) A vacuum with a variable suction (and preferably with a HEPA filter), cover the hose with nylon bobbinette- fixing this in place with a rubber band. 4) A clean fitch which is softer than the material of the object - a golden duster for very fragile items, pony hair for lacquer or gilt metal, hogs hair for furniture and ceramics. It is often helpful to have a magnifier to see what is happening at a microscopic level.
Before you start make sure that the item is sound, that it does not have any loose parts or damaged areas which might come loose in the dusting process. If there is any damage, record this and lay the item aside for specialist cleaning.
Dust is an abrasive material, it will harbour damp. Your aim will be to lift the dust off the object and direct it into the vacuum hose not to brush or wipe the object. So when you brush, hold it at an angle to the object and twist as you lift so that the dust is brought into contact with the brush without pulling the brush across the surface.
Remove any hard materials in the vicinity - take off jewellery and watches, cover the metal parts of the brush (the ferrule) with tape.
Now you can begin. Set the vacuum to low suction. Place the hose at apx 10cm from the area to clean. Draw the dust to the hose as described above. Work methodically taking an area at a time, and evenly cleaning all of the object. Be aware that dirt in crevices probably lays over bright unspoilt areas, whilst areas which stand proud may be abraded and therefore not as bright - over cleaning can leave a 'negative' image - the areas which should be bright (those standing proud) should be brighter than the crevices (which should 'recede').
Don't overclean, if in doubt, leave it. And be aware that there may be surface embellishments which may come to light in the cleaning process - don't try to remove these!
I hope this is useful. If you have any queries do email us on the contact page.
Please note Conservation Services can not be held responsible for any accidents or damage due directly or indirectly to these help pages. Do please use them as a guide.
We do have a small supply of start-up kits for conservation housekeeping. Contact us for more information.
