Cleaning Oil Paintings

Genuine oil paintings are priceless home assets that increase the value of any room. When you hang the paintings on the walls or place them in your room, then you will realize the richness of such art forms. Nevertheless, in order to preserve the beauty of the oil paintings for several years to come, you need to take extra efforts while handling and maintaining them. Otherwise, accumulation of dust and dirt tends to darken the painting. While it comes to maintenance of oil paintings, there are a myriad number of products in the market which are specially formulated for cleaning oil paintings. Read more on oil painting techniques for beginners.

Tips on Cleaning Oil Paintings

Oil paintings are sturdy and durable, which when managed with proper care can last for many generations. Unfortunately, not all people who possess oil paintings are aware of the tips on how to clean an oil painting. Considering this, it is not uncommon to damage such priceless possessions. An understanding of the basic tips to clean oil paintings will help in preserving their pristine beauty. The instructions for cleaning oil painting are discussed as follows:

Step #1
For cleaning oil paintings, first gather all the items required like a brush with soft bristles, a cotton cloth, and vacuum cleaner (with micro attachment kit). If you are planning to clean both the back and front of the oil painting, then carefully remove the painting and place it on a plain surface. You can cover a clean paper on the back so as to prevent dirt accumulation.

Step #2
Fix the micro nozzle in the vacuum and gently remove the dust and dirt from the surface of the oil painting. Clean the corners of the oil painting with the soft bristle brush. If it is hard to reach the corners with the vacuum or the brush, you can wipe out the dust by using a soft cloth.

Step #3
In case the varnish (outer protective surface) of the oil painting turns yellowish or dull, you can check for a conversation liquid to clean the varnish. Check for the reliability of the product while purchasing it. You can apply the conservation liquid in one corner of the painting to test its reactions or after application effects.

Step #4
If you find the conservation solution good to clean oil paint varnish, then continue application of the product all over the painting surface by using a cotton swab. For better results, carry out this step in a room with proper ventilation.

Step #5
Use a dampened cotton swab dip in distilled water to remove dirt from the oil painting surface. For an oily or sticky surface, you can prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a mild detergent in lukewarm water. Dampen a cotton cloth with the solution and clean the painting surface.

Step #6
If there are any cracks or fissures on the painting surface, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is preferable. In case you are planning to clean oil painting on canvas, make sure you do a spot test in one corner prior to cleaning the whole canvas.

Preserving the original color and value entirely depends upon how do you clean an oil painting. In case you own an antique oil painting, then do not engage in self cleaning, rather you can rely on a qualified professional for the purpose. If you are unsure about cleaning oil paintings, then also consider hiring someone who is professionally competent. You can search for trustworthy professional conservators in your area who provide cleaning services for oil paintings.