Hi Nikkie, We've collected several of the mortuary baskets that you've just received. Other than a gentle brushing into the air stream of a vaccuum cleaner hose, you shouldn't need to do much. The baskets are typically made of woven round reed and while dry will br fairly stable. If you'd like to contact me off-list, I'd be happy to share the benefit of our experience. Best regards, Jon N. Austin, Director Museum of Funeral Customs 1440 Monument Avenue Springfield, IL 62702 (217) 544-3480 (217) 544-3484 (fax) www.funeralmuseum.org The Museum of Funeral Customs is operated by the Illinois Funeral Service Foundation, which is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit corporation, and the Illinois Funeral Directors Association. ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).