Yes, start by asking and answering some basic questions. Your answers
may guide you to appropriate decisions that will keep you from
doing irrepairable harm to your objects.

Ask why the furniture needs cleaning. Is it covered with something that,
when left alone, may cause harm either to the finish or the wood? Is it on
exhibit and the curator feels that it "looks bad" because it is dusty?

Clearly the first question is easier to answer. If the object is in
immediate danger, the danger must be mitigated and a professional should be
consulted. Many conservation professionals will help you assess the danger
to collections for much less money than they'll charge to perform a
treatment.

The second question should lead you to more questions--such as: is the
object stable? is the finish already treated with something such as wax? Is
it veneered, is the veneer secure or lifting? a careful exam, with a good
light and a magnifing device, will help you determing some of these things.

Dust can scratch a finish. Removing the dust by wiping can be abrasive. Try
to determine what the dirt is made of. Is it salty or sandy? Is it stuck to
the surface of the object? These questions will help you think about the
best removal methods. Remind yourself that all substances you're likely to
have on hand have the potential to react chemically with almost any object
you're likely to want to clean. Conservation is 90% organic chemistry. Ask:
is this material likely to soften glues or finishes? Do I know what the
object is made of? The first rule I learned was: Start with the least
aggressive method available and the smallest amount of cleaning material.
To clean tarnished metal, for example, we used distilled water before
moving to dental whiting in water before using more abrasive polishing
materials. Chemical methods were left to those with chemistry training.

Take your time, think about your actions and their potential consequences
and you've already avoided the major pitfalls of cleaning an object
yourself.

The British Columbia Museum's Association publishes a great
handbook: "Preventive Conservation: A Manual" I believe it should have a
place on your bookshelf, next to "The New Museum Registration Methods"
and "The Artist's Complete Health and Safety Guide" by Monona Rossol, about
art materials (as you might also use in conservation) and how to keep your
workplace compliant with OSHA and other regulations.

Good luck,
Diane Gutenkauf

On Fri, 16 Aug 2002 11:51:31 -0400, Jim Schulte <[log in to unmask]>
wrote:

<snip>

With
>that said, the Historical site I am currently at is seeking advice on how
>to properly clean the many pieces of furniture in the house. Most of it is
>Ware furniture, chairs and tables. I have suggested they hire a conservator
>to look over the collection, but budget constraints is the answer. Does
>anyone have any suggestions i may pass on ?  Thanks,
>Jim
>

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