How to Clean an Oil Painting

When cleaning your oil painting, you want to be sure that your painting is still there when you’re finished! If the painting is an antique, it may decrease the value if not cleaned properly. However, there are four ways to do it yourself at home.

Using a Soft Brush or Sponge

A safe option, on how to clean an oil painting, is to use a soft brush to remove dust and soot. This could be a soft paintbrush, baby toothbrush, shaving brush, etc. Also, you can use a micro attachment kit for your vacuum that has tiny brushes for deep cleaning. If these don’t work, use a dry rubber sponge across the surface, but not if the surface is damaged or flaky.

Soft Clean Cloths and Water

Try soft clean cloths and water with a couple drops of dish detergent. Check the cloths, and if paint colors are coming off, stop cleaning. Use damp cloths at first, dab the painting, don’t scrub. If damp cloths aren’t enough, use a little more water. Be careful because the water can get under the varnish and cause cracks.

Bread, Onions and Potatoes

This may sound like a recipe, however, these are just more items used on how to clean an oil painting. Another home remedy to remove grease and accumulated dirt, is to use a loaf or two of bread. When one loaf gets grubby, use another loaf. After using the bread, use a soft brush to brush away the bread crumbs. Staying on the subject of food, you may use a cut potato or onion as an astringent, with a couple lemon juice drops.. Keep wiping gently over the painting and throw away each piece as it absorbs the dirt.

Lanolin-based Cleaner

A more thorough job can be done by using a lanolin based cleaner as plain or unscented hand cleaner. Use a soft cloth or cotton bud, and with a circular motion gently dab the painting. It is best to start at the bottom right hand corner to test. If the paint has no reaction, then it is all right to finish the cleaning. Take your time. Don’t rub too hard because that could cause flaking.

Using the above four methods; soft brush, soft cloths, bread, potatoes or onions, and a lanolin based cleaner will give you many options in cleaning the oil painting to your satisfaction. These methods hopefully will bring many years of enjoyment of your oil paintings!