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How to Clean Snow Globes

Snow globes, like other knickknacks that basically sit on a shelf, have a habit of collecting dust. Plus if they are handled a lot, the glass or plastic dome can attract fingerprints. Fortunately, it's fairly simple to clean them. Just remember to use a microfiber cloth so the dome doesn't become cloudy with lint after the dust is gone. Also, use the correct cleaning agent for your snow globe's composition so you don't damage it.

Things You'll Need

Towel
Microfiber cloths
Commercial glass cleaner
White vinegar
Small dish
Dust remover spray (such as Endust)
Cotton swabs
Baby toothbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Set the snow globe on a clean, dry towel. If you're worried about it falling and breaking, place the towel on the floor. Otherwise you can set it on a table or countertop. If your globe has a glass dome, spray your cloth with a teaspoon of commercial glass cleaner. If the dome is plastic, spray it with the same amount of white vinegar.
- 2
  Use a cloth to wipe all parts of the dome, using in a circular motion. If you notice your cloth turning black or brown, you have a lot of dirt on your globe. Wipe it again with a second cloth to make sure you remove all the dirt. Don't allow water to drip on the globe's base, especially if it is wood or has batteries inside it. Wipe the dome dry with a clean cloth.
- 3
  Carefully lay the snow globe on its side so you can clean both the sides and bottom of the base. Then dip a new cloth in a small dish of white vinegar if the base is plastic, ceramic or resin. If it's wood, spray the cloth with half a teaspoon of dust remover (such as Endust). Use a product that cannot get absorbed into the wood.
- 4
  Wring out the cloth, if needed, so it's not dripping. Then carefully wipe around the base of the snow globe. If it's wood, follow the grain. If not, move in rows. If the base has intricate detailing, dip a cotton swab in the cleaner and use it to wash these tight areas. Replace the swab often, so the tip doesn't start to unravel. If there are places the swab won't fit, use a baby-sized toothbrush.
- 5
  If the snow globe is not plastic, set it in the sun to air-dry. Leave it on its side until the base shows no signs of dampness. Then stand it up and let it dry completely. If it is plastic, dry the base with a microfiber cloth, being careful not to get the dome wet again.

Antiquing