1. For cleaning paintings, always make sure that the brush you are using is made of soft bristles. Soft brushes remove the dirt accumulated on the painting without damaging the painting.
2. For cleaning the back of the painting, first remove the painting from its frame and put it down carefully on a clean surface.
3. Now with the help of a small nozzle with a brush attachment, vacuum the dirt slowly and carefully.
4. If necessary, you can place a paper cover on the back of the painting to prevent dust from getting accumulated there.
5. If the varnish of the oil painting is looking aged, buy a gentle solvent known as ‘conservation liquid’ to clean it.
6. Before using the solvent directly on the painting, first test the reaction of the solvent by applying it on just one corner.
7. If the solvent is good, put the painting in an area with sufficient ventilation.
8. Now apply the solvent very carefully on the surface of the painting with the help of a cotton swab.
9. For removing the surface dirt, use cotton swabs dampened with distilled water. Lightly roll the cotton swabs on the surface to remove dirt.
10. In case, the painting is showing signs of cracks or loose flakes, carefully dust the surface with the help of an extremely spongy and dry bristle brush such as a baby toothbrush or shaving cream brush.
11. And if the surface of the oil painting is muggy, dirty or oily use a gentle detergent solution. Mix the solution in lukewarm water and then apply it on the surface of the painting with the help of new fiber cloths.
12. For recently done modern paintings, make sure that your oil painting is free of built-up dirt, smoke, pet hair, dander, and as well bacterial or any fungal growth.
13. For cleaning oil paintings covered in dust or yellowed varnish, look for a qualified professional.
