How Do I Clean Up an Old Glass Electric Insulator?

Clean the insulators with a simple solution of warm water and mild dish soap. This should be your first step in trying to remove dirt and grime. Use a bucket or other container to mix the soap and water and soak the insulators for a few minutes. Getting inside the insulator may prove tricky. If your fingers are too big, use a toothbrush or pipe cleaner. If the grime proves stubborn, soak longer, even overnight. Rinse and wipe with a clean rag, then allow to dry.

Use a xylene or acetone cleaner such as nail polish remover if the soap and water doesn't remove all the grime. This method also is good for removing gum residue from stickers.

Mix a solution of oxalic acid (often called "wood bleach") and water if soot and dirt doesn't come off with other methods. Oxalic acid commonly is used in rust removal. It's an acid, so wear rubber gloves. Use a plastic bucket (the acid will discolor and damage metal). Use 1 lb. of oxalic acid per 2 1/2 gallons of water. Mix the acid with hot water, let it cool to room temperature and place your insulators in the solution. Cover the bucket and let the insulators soak overnight. The next day, scrub with a kitchen scrub pad or fine steel wool. Use a toothbrush or pipe cleaner to clean inside the insulator. Rinse and wipe, then allow to air dry.

Use a lye solution as an alternative to oxalic acid. Mix 12 oz. of lye with 2 gallons cold water in a plastic bucket. Do not use hot water, which will cause the lye to emit nasty vapors. Wear rubber gloves. Lye is very corrosive. Avoid inhaling any vapors. Place your insulators in the solution, allow them to soak overnight and scrub and rinse the following day. Allow to air dry.