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How to Clean a Picture on Photo Paper

While it is best to store pictures on an album or a container that will protect them, if printed pictures do become dirty or stained, there are ways to clean them. Cleaning printed pictures takes care and practice. Emulsion cleaner products will assist you in restoring a picture. If you use such products, be sure to follow the instructions of that specific product. Once you have restored the picture, place it in a protective sleeve or album to prevent it from becoming dirty or damaged in the future.

Things You'll Need

Emulsion cleaning solution
Photographic cleaning pads
Photo lab gloves
Clean kitchen towel

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare a workspace by placing a clean towel in front of you. Wear photo lab gloves to prevent fingerprints from marking the picture any further.
- 2
  Use a blower brush or can of compressed air to remove any loose dust or dirt from the surface of the picture. If the picture has any tears or rips in it, you should avoid using compressed air because the force of the air may cause the paper to lift further.
- 3
  Apply a small amount of the emulsion cleaner to the cleaning pads. Use the pads to remove any residue or mold that is on the picture.
- 4
  Allow the picture to dry thoroughly and store the picture in an album or photo sleeve.

Photography