Conservation FAQ

Browse images and information about the Museum and Archive collections here.

Can I wash antique clothing on a delicates wash in the machine?

No, old fabrics were not designed to be washed in a machine and the force of even a delicates cycle can mis-shape, shrink, make colours run and fade the item.

How do I clean a dirty painting?

If it is an oil painting and the paint is not flaking off you can use a very soft brush to gently dust the surface. If it is a watercolour do nothing. If it is just the glass that is dirty it is ok to use a clean dry cloth with a little glass cleaner sprayed onto it to gently clean the glass. Never spray glass cleaner directly onto the glass, always spray onto a cloth first.

How do I find a professional conservator/restorer?

Look on the conservation register at www.conservationregister.com

Where can I buy a box for storing delicate items?

We cannot make recommendations about companies but there are lists of approved suppliers on the Museums Association website.

What kind of materials are best for photo albums?

Sometimes, if the photo album says that it is ‘Acid Free’ then it is fine to use, however the best method is to use Melinex (a type of clear plastic) pockets to protect the photos.