Wait at least 24 hours before attempting to clean newly-completed paintings. The slightest blemish on an original piece of artwork may be enough to depreciate its value.
A makeup brush or hand duster will work well for this purpose. The brush should be clean and dry before it comes into contact with the acrylic painting. [3] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source
Don’t forget to address dust that’s built up on the frame or surrounding surfaces, as well. [5] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source To remove a heavier layer of dust, hold a vacuum cleaner hose close to the painting as you brush it.
When it comes to preserving works of art, prevention is always more effective than cleaning. [7] X Research source
Consider having valuable works cleaned professionally by a qualified art restorer. Though it will cost more, you’ll be able to rest assured that the painting is receiving proper treatment. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive tools to clean a painting. This includes traditional substances such as mineral spirits and turpentine as well as commercial cleaners.
The detergent will help emulsify dirt and grime to lift them from the surface of the paint while the water flushes them away.
Make sure there’s no heavy soap residue on the cleaning cloth. Some types of acrylic paint are water-soluble. If there is too much moisture in the cloth, it may begin to dissolve the paint, creating a blotchy, fuzzy appearance. [10] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source
Fold the cloth a few times to create a wider surface area. This will help distribute the moisture more evenly over the paint and help you avoid pressure smudges. Test the soap solution on a corner or another out-of-the-way area to see what effect it has before wiping the entire painting. [12] X Research source
Make sure you select a varnish that has been specially formulated for use on acrylic paints. If you choose the wrong kind, it may severely degrade the paint. [14] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source Brush off the surface of the painting before you apply a varnish to keep dust from becoming trapped in the clear coat.
Paintings are more likely to gather dust when they’re mounted higher up on the wall. [16] X Research source If you’re forced to store your paintings in an attic, basement or garage, wrap them in bubble wrap then cover them with brown paper or plastic garbage bags to keep dust from settling on them. [17] X Research source
When using a separate light source to illuminate a painting, make sure it’s not intense enough to cause fading to occur. [19] X Research source Always cover paintings while transporting them to minimize the amount of time they spend in bright natural light.
Run a dehumidifier periodically in the room where you store or display your paintings to keep environmental conditions optimal. High humidity can also result in the growth of mold and mildew. [21] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source
Always grip the painting by the edge of the frame when mounting or moving it. [23] X Trustworthy Source The Smithsonian Institution Leading group of museums and research institution funded by the U. S. government Go to source
