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How to Clean Cast Iron Toys

Antique cast-iron toys were popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. When in good condition with all original components, they are sought-after collector's toys. These toys are a common find in attics and estates. You can clean cast-iron toys to help improve their value. Just be careful not to damage the toys in the process.

Things You'll Need

Towel
Paintbrush
Mineral oil
Bucket
Water
Dishwashing detergent

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the toy for decals, markings and paint. When cleaning the toy, you want to make sure you don't remove these as they help increase the value. Be extra careful around any decals and markings because they may come off easily.
- 2
  Set the toy on a clean towel.
- 3
  Brush a layer of mineral oil along the surface of the toy. Be sure to get in the cracks and crevices of the toy. Allow the oil to sit for several hours to loosen up grease and grime.
- 4
  Wipe off the mineral oil with a clean towel. Be careful around decals and markings.
- 5
  Fill the bucket with cold water. Mix in a couple of squirts of dishwashing liquid. The water should be slightly sudsy.
- 6
  Dip a corner of a clean towel in the sudsy water and wipe the toy down, removing extra oil, dirt and grime.
- 7
  Gently wipe the toy dry.

Collecting Vintage Toys