Oil paintings are valuable assets, whether they are painted by a family member or by Rembrandt. Although hardy, these paintings need proper cleaning and care to maintain their original color and clarity. When cared for and hung properly, oil paintings can last for centuries, creating a legacy and history that can be enjoyed for many generations.
Cleaning
A soft cloth made from lamb's wool or similar soft material should be used to gently dust the front of the artwork. Use the cloth or duster dry. Never spray the artwork or cloth with any kind of furniture polish or cleaning agent, as the chemicals may harm the work. To clean the back of the artwork, remove it from the wall and gently place it on a soft surface so as not to damage the print. Lightly vacuum or brush the back to remove dust, being sure not to use spray or cleaning agents. Dust the painting weekly to prevent a buildup of dust. The glass covering the picture can be cleaned with a glass cleaner applied directly to the glass, not the painting's cover. This will help protect the painting in the event of dripping cleaner.
Dirt and Dust Buildup
Should you find an amount of dust or dirt that cannot be removed with a brush or cleaning cloth, you can use a small amount of distilled water as a cleaning agent. Use a cotton swab dipped in the distilled water and gently remove the dirt from the painting. Be careful not to use a large amount of water; just moisten the cotton swab. If you are unable to remove the dirt after a few tries, you should contact a cleaning professional. A professional can typically be found through your local art museum, the Internet or a telephone book.
Preservation
There are simple actions you take to preserve your artwork. Hang the painting in an area that is not subject to direct, bright sunlight as this type of light can cause the colors to fade. However, some fading or darkening of colors over time is normal. Keeping the painting in a room that is temperature-controlled is important, as humidity is known to be harmful to oil paintings. Extreme temperatures may cause damage due to contracting and expanding of the materials. The ideal temperature for oil paintings is generally between 65F and 75F with humidity of 40 percent to 55 percent.
General Tips
To help avoid mold forming on or around the print, keep it in a place free from excessive moisture. Hanging an oil painting in a bathroom or laundry room is not recommended. Paintings should be kept away from smokers so that harmful nicotine doesn't adhere to the painting, causing damage. Insects cause damage to oil paintings. If you suspect an infestation of bugs, you should package the print in plastic and have an expert examine and clean the painting for you. When the back of the painting is covered with paper, you can remove and replace the paper as needed.
