To Clean...Or Not To Clean?

[120RIR]

While it's pretty clear to me that heavy cleaning and refinishing of an original Kentucky (unless the piece is a real train wreck and subject to major restoration) can dramatically reduce the value, how much "cleaning" is acceptable?  I'm not talking about taking sandpaper to the metal and wood but, for example, gently clearing away built-up dry oil or obvious encrusted dirt on the brass or on the wood obscuring an original finish. As I see it, dirt is one thing but the patina of centuries of wear is of course quite another.  Any thoughts?

[Joe S.]

unless you know exactly how and what to do its better left to a experienced professional. Many a antique has been ruined by good intentions

[WadePatton]

unless you know exactly how and what to do its better left to a experienced professional. Many a antique has been ruined by good intentions

Full agreement.  We've hashed this one before once or twice as well.  Get professional eyes on advice.

[wet willy]

I would contact your state's historical society and ask for their recommendations or sources for cleaning. You are correct that many forms of cleaning will destroy the historic value of the piece.

Some start with warm water and a cloth. To preserve the historic value the cleaning process should be reversible, that is you can undo it if necessary. Sandpaper cleaning is not reversible.

[Stan]

DON'T CLEAN - AN ANTIQUE IS "ORIGINAL" ONLY ONCE.