Cleaning of medals has been discussed many times in this forum, with many suggestions. I personaly feel that the less is done the better. The patina and natural aging should not be disturbed. However dirt, oils and dust will contribute to further deterioation of the objects. Dust is especially bad news because it forms mild acids when it combines with the moisture in the air.
Medals that are not painted and not laquer coated can be cleaned with a cotton tipped toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will only remove the dirt and oils but will not touch any of the patina.
Painted or delicate finishes should be cleaned with a cotton tippet toothpick soaked in a mild solution of unscented diswashing detergent in distilled water. Use a clean swab with only distilled water to remove all traces of the detergent after the cleaning. No liquids should be used on iron crosses, they will soak into the gap between frame and core and cause future problems. A soft brush to remove dust and only slightly damp swab for grime can be used when absolutely necessary. In all cases the medal must be completely air dryed before it is placed into storage. Museum wax can then be used for additionl protection only after you are certain that the medal is completely dry. I clean ribbons and case interiors by brushing very lightly with a very soft brush next to a vacuum cleaner nozzle. This will lift and remove most of the accumulated dirt. After cleaning handle the medals only with cotton gloves.
Wolfgang
Medals that are not painted and not laquer coated can be cleaned with a cotton tipped toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will only remove the dirt and oils but will not touch any of the patina.
Painted or delicate finishes should be cleaned with a cotton tippet toothpick soaked in a mild solution of unscented diswashing detergent in distilled water. Use a clean swab with only distilled water to remove all traces of the detergent after the cleaning. No liquids should be used on iron crosses, they will soak into the gap between frame and core and cause future problems. A soft brush to remove dust and only slightly damp swab for grime can be used when absolutely necessary. In all cases the medal must be completely air dryed before it is placed into storage. Museum wax can then be used for additionl protection only after you are certain that the medal is completely dry. I clean ribbons and case interiors by brushing very lightly with a very soft brush next to a vacuum cleaner nozzle. This will lift and remove most of the accumulated dirt. After cleaning handle the medals only with cotton gloves.
Wolfgang
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