Dust

[nd164th]

What is the best way to clean the usual light household dust that shows up on displayed wool uniforms and visor/ field hats. Algemeine Black really shows the dust. Best but safe way to do it
Thanks

[BROBS]

I'm no expert but perhaps a slightly dampened cloth? or a lint roller should take it off

[rbminis]

I would not recommend a lint roller, the glue is too strong and will pull the fibers of the cloth. Either a feather duster or a vaccuum with the brush attachment and the vent on the handle open part way. I use this method for my taxidermied birds of prey and it does not ruffle the feathers.
Ralph.

[nd164th]

thanks

[Paul R.]

I would never suggest using any type of lint tape roller devise. As stated it pulls off old worn wool, and leaves a tape residue behind. The residue is hard to remove of fabric

One of the safest methods is using a soft animal hair brush only and lightly brush off any dust. Slowly move over the entire tunic using a sweeping method. Taking the tunic outside on a nice day helps air it out as well.


A second is using a controlled vacuum. I only suggest using the method on deep embedded dirt and dust that has accumulated on your tunic. When using a vacuum has its own set of potential problems as well especially if you do not control the suction. Taping off some of hand held hose with duct tape works well. Be sure that the tunic is strong and not falling apart i.e. seams, collar tabs, boards, buttons. Never vacuum interiors of tunics or areas where there are holes.

Take the tunic off a mannequin. Lay the tunic flat on a clean surface. Take a piece of vinyl window screening that has the screens edging taped so that it doesn’t catch on anything i.e. ribbons or collar tabs. Lay the screening on top of the tunic holding it down with one hand. In the other hand take the hand held vacuum hose that you taped off the hose diameter. Lightly go over the area. To dot apply any pressure to the hose while vacuuming. Quickly move over the space. Be sure to pick up the screenings to move it to the next area. Never drag the screening over any uniform.
I use both methods when I’m cleaning museums displays.

[nd164th]

great ideas

[nd164th]

Always wait until your neighbors are indoors before you brush off the black Algemeine uniform outside of course. of course in todays neighborhoods one sees worse things go on

[Hans Kondor]

Hello guys,

I am also interested in what is the best way to remove dust but not from a uniform but from badges, and medals, esspecially iron crosses.

[james m]

Originally Posted by Hans Kondor

Hello guys,

I am also interested in what is the best way to remove dust but not from a uniform but from badges, and medals, esspecially iron crosses.

I use a soft brush to dust mine off.
Jim

[Paul R.]

Originally Posted by james m

I use a soft brush to dust mine off.
Jim

I would use a new animal hair (soft) brush to gently brush over your medals and clothing. Some cheaper brushes are a bit more stiff and may scratch soft medal finishes. When you have completed the task simple rinse in warm water and air dry until your next dusting.

[Hans Kondor]

My problem with the brush is, that it moves the dust to the corners of the crosses, can't remove them all. Maybe should I use a hoover?

[Paul R.]

I have used a can air product on tougher areas. Please do not place the air can nozzle to close to the metals or any type of ribbons. Any fragile ribbons with shred to pieces from the can air force. Also be sure to hold on tightly, or It could blow out of your hands.

[Hans Kondor]

Originally Posted by Paul R.

I have used a can air product on tougher areas. Please do not place the air can nozzle to close to the metals or any type of ribbons. Any fragile ribbons with shred to pieces from the can air force. Also be sure to hold on tightly, or It could blow out of your hands.

Tried it and looks good, it doesn't hurt any silver/gold finish does it?

[Paul R.]

Just be careful if there is any silver or gold paint is flaking off.