Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Examine each old or antique tool carefully. Determine what the tool is made of and the level of care required.
Clean off old dust and dirt accumulations. Using a mild soap and water, wipe the tools off with a cloth wrung nearly dry. For crevices and corners, use cotton swabs and/or a vacuum cleaner. Set the vacuum on the lowest suction and use the brush attachment.
Scrub metal portions of the tool with a small stiff brush, if any dirt remains, using mineral spirits. For particularly stubborn dirt, add 1 percent mild cleaning solution (such as Vulpex) to the mineral spirits. Clean corrosive areas with steel wool dipped in mineral spirits.
Wipe the metal parts with deionized or distilled water to remove residue from the soap and mineral spirits.
Treat the wooden portions of your tools with a coat synthetic wax that will not yellow with age. Metal parts do not require waxing, especially pieces that do not need a shiny surface.
Buff your waxed tools with a soft cloth or brush.