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How to Clean Antique Celluloid Photo Albums

Celluloid photo albums--popular between the 18th and 19th centuries--were typically embellished with Victorian designs, engravings, gold and embossing. Dirt and dust can build up on the photo albums with time. Take special care when cleaning celluloid photo albums, as the embellishments are usually fragile and easily damaged. Maintain your antique celluloid photo albums and their beauty will last for years to come.

Things You'll Need

Liquid hand soap
2 soft cloths
Cotton swabs
Soft paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Brush any loose dirt or dust from the celluloid photo album with a soft, dry paintbrush. Sweep the brush lightly around each design.
- 2
  Dampen a cloth with water and wring it out. Apply one or two drops of liquid hand soap to the cloth.
- 3
  Wipe the celluloid photo album gently with the damp cloth. Work gently around any gold trim or loose embellishments.
- 4
  Dampen a cotton swab with water. Run it along any cracks, crevices or embossed designs to remove embedded dirt.
- 5
  Dry the antique photo album gently with a soft cloth.

Antiquing