Gently removing dirt while preserving antique stoneware jugs requires meticulous care. Prioritize minimal intervention to maintain patina and value. Follow these museum-approved methods for safe cleaning.
Essential Preliminary Steps
Inspect thoroughly for hairline cracks, flaking glaze, or unstable repairs. Test material integrity by tapping lightly with a wooden stick: clear ringing indicates sound condition, dull thuds suggest damage. Dust removal precedes wet cleaning using soft brushes:
- Artist's sable brushes (various sizes)
- Microfiber cloth without texture
- Low-suction vacuum with cheesecloth barrier
Staged Cleaning Procedure
Stage 1: Surface Debris Removal
Create a dry cleaning paste with cornstarch and distilled water (3:1 ratio). Apply with cotton swabs using rolling motions – never scrub. Let dry completely before brushing off. This lifts ingrained dust without abrasion.
Stage 2: Controlled Moisture Cleaning
Only proceed if dry methods fail. Use pH-neutral Orvus WA Paste diluted in distilled water (1 tablespoon per gallon). Apply via:
- Light misting from 12" distance
- Immediate blotting with lint-free towels
- Restricting contact time to under 15 seconds per section
Specialized Stain Treatment
For mineral deposits inside jugs: use distilled white vinegar vapor. Place container in sealed box with vinegar bowl – never direct contact. Maximum 30-minute exposure followed by immediate dehumidification. Organic stains respond to hydrogen peroxide poultices:
- Cotton pad soaked in 3% solution
- Apply only to stained areas
- Cover with cling film to prevent evaporation
- Remove after 20 minutes regardless of results
Critical drying protocol: Place jugs in dark, low-humidity area with silica gel packets. Rotate every 12 hours for 72 hours minimum. Avoid temperature fluctuations exceeding 5°C/40°F.
Strict Prohibitions
Never employ:
- Abrasive cleansers or scrubbing pads
- Undiluted acidic solutions
- Mechanical washers/steam devices
- Direct sunlight or heat sources for drying
Any uncertainty warrants consultation with professional conservators - irreversible damage occurs in seconds. Patience preserves history.
