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How Do You Clean Paper?

Published in Paper Conservation 2 mins read

Cleaning paper requires a delicate approach to avoid damage. Here's a breakdown of methods you can use:

1. Preliminary Cleaning:

  • Brushing: Use a clean, soft brush (like a sable brush or a makeup brush) to gently remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the paper's surface. This is crucial before attempting any other cleaning method.

2. Deeper Cleaning Methods:

  • Rubber Sponges (Vulcanized Natural Rubber): These sponges, often gray or tan in color, can lift embedded dirt from paper surfaces. Gently rub the sponge across the paper in a single direction. Be sure to use a clean portion of the sponge for each pass.

  • Plastic Erasers: A soft, white plastic eraser (like a Staedtler Mars Plastic eraser) can be used to remove pencil marks and some types of surface dirt. Use light pressure and erase in one direction. Crumble erasers are also available that work in a similar fashion.

Important Considerations:

  • Test First: Always test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area of the paper before applying it to the entire surface.
  • Support the Paper: When cleaning, support the paper on a clean, flat surface to prevent creasing or tearing.
  • Avoid Liquids: Water and other liquids can stain or damage paper, so they should be avoided unless absolutely necessary and handled by a professional.
  • Professional Help: For valuable or fragile documents, consult a professional paper conservator. They have the expertise and specialized tools to safely clean and preserve paper.
  • Safety First: Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using chemical cleaners (though these are generally not recommended for cleaning paper).

Summary:

Cleaning paper involves carefully removing dirt and debris using gentle methods like brushing, rubber sponges, and plastic erasers. Always test your method in an inconspicuous area first and consult a professional conservator for valuable or fragile items.