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How to Clean Kachina Dolls

Kachina dolls represent spiritual entities from the Pueblo Indian religion. Traditionally, they are carved from cottonwood, and painted and decorated with organic materials like feathers, grasses and seeds. This can make them difficult to clean. Prevent damage by keeping kachinas in a low-humidity, dust-free environment. If you must clean kachinas, the proper tools and careful handling will restore the natural beauty of these collectibles.

Things You'll Need

Artist's paintbrushes
Soft-bristle toothbrush
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Examine your kachina doll carefully for dust, dirt and soiled areas on cloth, yarn or painted wood surfaces. If the kachina has been stored in a damp area, look for mold and mildew.
- 2
  Dislodge dirt on wood, leather, yarn and cloth areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Newer kachina dolls may be painted with tough acrylic paints that can withstand gentle brushing. If your kachina is older and the paint is obviously delicate, avoid these areas with the brush.
- 3
  Dust more delicate surfaces like bark, feathers and weathered painted surfaces with a set of artist's paintbrushes. Dust will adhere to soft, dry bristles. Use large brushes for cloth, yarn and feathers. Use the smallest brush in the set to gently remove dirt from crevices in the carving.
- 4
  Get rid of mildew odors on kachina dolls by sprinkling them with baking soda and letting it sit for an hour or two. Brush the baking soda away with the paintbrushes.

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