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How to Clean Celluloid Plastic

Invented in the late 19th century, celluloid plastic was used in a variety of items, including photo albums, dolls and jewelry. The popularity of celluloid waned around the 1950s, and today many collectors and historians view celluloid items as antique or vintage. Celluloid is unstable in the face of many chemical or heavy-duty cleaners. Carry out the cleaning of antique items with care and mild cleaning solutions to guarantee the prolonged existence of a historic celluloid item.

Things You'll Need

Lens brush
Microfiber cloths
Mild dish soap
Butter knife

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any loose particles from the item by brushing them away with a soft lens brush. If not brushed away, loose particles may cause tiny scratches on the surface of the celluloid.
- 2
  Dunk a microfiber cloth into a weak solution of mild dish soap and water and squeeze out the excess water thoroughly.
- 3
  Wipe down the celluloid gently with the cloth. Increase the pressure slightly to remove stuck-on matter; however, avoid using firmer pressure on hand-painted or gilded areas. Wrap the cloth over the end of a butter knife and use the wrapped knife end to access hard-to-reach cracks and embossments.
- 4
  Dry the celluloid with a fresh microfiber cloth just after washing.

Antiques