Hi, what would be the best way to clean Vietnam era canvas/cloth equipment such as packs, belts, canteen covers, mag pouches, that have a musty smell? would washing them in a mild soap{any suggestions for a brand?} and completely air drying do the job. obviously don't want to damage them or the markings, but don't want the smell either. thanks, Mike
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I am not sure if the items are more delicate with age but when I was in the army (71-73) and our TA-50 gear got dirty, I would walk in the shower with it on, soap up and let the water rinse it off. I don't know if that is such a good idea now that it would be near 40 years old.
Denny -
From a conservation point of view. Never clean any historical artifact. Even though that item is called by some a recent war era item. Please help me understand your logic in wanting to risk any further possible damage or fading of fabric to an item, or even rusting attached metal items? If you want a newer war era item, or a never used item collect those items. A lot of collectors like a some what salty look to a item. A kind of been their look.
I would recomend only brushing off any loose soiling like mud ect. Use a natural type of brush. Never use a roller tape brush. That leaves a residue behind on your item, or use a hand held vaccum. Do not rub any item, or over vaccum a area. If there is any loose items like threads, metal, plastic avoid brushing/vaccuming around that area. It is your item do as you see fit with. I hope this helps. PaulLast edited by Paul R.; 07-29-2008, 06:02 AM.Comment
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I would leave them alone. I have several nam displays and to take the smell away just leave them ian a room with a windo open fior some time. Just make sure you dont get rain or sun on themComment
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Don't mess with it, leave it alone......it has a characteristic smell that you will never be able to clean away.I like it BTW....
It is better to find the gear in better clean original condition as it is not so expensive than wasting your time cleaning and spoiling it.
My opinion
AceComment
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not cleaning Vietnam gear
Thanks for the info, I wasn't looking to make salty gear look new. Just wanted to cut down on the musty smell. I didn't want to risk any damage, thats why I was looking for any tips. I'll just leave it as is. thanksComment
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