Cleaning models

[CharlieMike23]

Hey everyone, as a somewhat new model collector, I was wondering if there is a specific way that I should be cleaning my models. Right now, I'm just using a tissue to clean the planes. Should I be using something else or is that okay?

 

[SIGWX]

I generally use glass cleaning cloths and handle the models with gloves on. Compressed air seems to be another option.

Avoid using rubbing alcohol/acetone and you're golden.

 

[N907CL]

I generally use glass cleaning cloths and handle the models with gloves on. Compressed air seems to be another option.

Avoid using rubbing alcohol/acetone and you're golden.

Judgement call on using gloves; some models I do, some I don't, prone to usually snagging antennas and maybe some other parts of the aircraft.

 

[aviation456]

I am a relatively new collector myself. I use soft cotton balls/ Q-tips to clean my models, to ensure that I don't accidentally scratch the paintwork, sometimes wearing gloves (always remember to wash your hands before interacting with the models!!) to remove dust. My fleet aren't housed on open shelves, but rather in a closed cabinet but as it isn't airtight, gradual dust accumulation is guaranteed! This does mean that I don't have to bother with deep-cleaning or using distilled water or any other cleaning liquid as the models never get filthy - some light overall dabbing seems to work for me...

I have heard some people use brushes?

 

[Mark22]

I'm using a soft brush, no need to buy something new over and over plus no way to damage anything. Be very careful with handling polished parts, they can get tarnished easily

 

[Purpleplane]

I'm using a soft brush, no need to buy something new over and over plus no way to damage anything. Be very careful with handling polished parts, they can get tarnished easily

Yes, I use a small soft make-up brush. It works perfectly.

 

[Jazajia]

I bought a fancy Tamiya model cleaning brush. The big brush does not work too well, but the small tip is good for getting dust out of intricate places. I don't think it is worth it as you can achieve the same results with Q-tips or eyeglasses wipes.



I think it is counterproductive to clean a model using bare hands as skin oils could ruin the parts you've already cleaned. For that I hold the model using some sort of barrier, it could be a napkin, handkerchief, another eyeglass wipe, or gloves. As others have mentioned, be careful with gloves. Sometimes I am lazy and still handle them with bare hands, but I wash them well first.

Car polish works marvels to revitalize old models and remove dirt stains. A lot of patience and care is needed to polish around small parts.

 

[CharlieMike23]

Thank You all for your suggestions! I really appreciate it!

 

[jetliner10101]

Always use a damped tissue mixed with aloe cleaning soap. It works well with cleaning the box or paper sleeve even with sticky glue (price tag) residue

 

[OscarBravo992]

I don’t ever really have the need to clean models. They go straight out of the box into the display cabinet!

From my experience with dusting Lego collections though, compressed air and a small soft paintbrush should do the job. Avoid cloths or tissues as they may catch or damage small details.

 

[LeoMuse747]

I don’t ever really have the need to clean models. They go straight out of the box into the display cabinet!

Same here.
My cabinet have sliding doors of glass and I swear the models all look clean. Dust doesn't seem to be able to come inside.

 

[Purpleplane]

I still need to dust my models, but only once a year. The cabinets that I have allow very little dust in, although there is still a small amount.

 

[CharlieMike23]

I don’t ever really have the need to clean models. They go straight out of the box into the display cabinet!

From my experience with dusting Lego collections though, compressed air and a small soft paintbrush should do the job. Avoid cloths or tissues as they may catch or damage small details.

Okay, good to know. Thanks for the help!

 

[Sithan400]

I bought a fancy Tamiya model cleaning brush. The big brush does not work too well, but the small tip is good for getting dust out of intricate places. I don't think it is worth it as you can achieve the same results with Q-tips or eyeglasses wipes.

View attachment 32155

I think it is counterproductive to clean a model using bare hands as skin oils could ruin the parts you've already cleaned. For that I hold the model using some sort of barrier, it could be a napkin, handkerchief, another eyeglass wipe, or gloves. As others have mentioned, be careful with gloves. Sometimes I am lazy and still handle them with bare hands, but I wash them well first.

Car polish works marvels to revitalize old models and remove dirt stains. A lot of patience and care is needed to polish around small parts.

Really? Car Polish? Any particular brand?

Cheers

 

[Gazontipede]

I've got an old camera puffer and brush that works well for me.

 

[planes_on_a_shelf]

paint brushes of different thickness and bristle softness.
And a flat brush for the wings and stabs

don't have more than 7-8 models displayed at a time currently with the lack of space - use the runway display case from FW as they have a good fit and prevent dust ingress

 

[Jazajia]

Really? Car Polish? Any particular brand?

Cheers

Griot’s Garage Best of Show detailer has worked very well for me. Diecast models are pieces of metal covered by paint and clear coat. Similar to cars.

 

[MIAv8Diecast]

I generally use glass cleaning cloths and handle the models with gloves on. Compressed air seems to be another option.

Avoid using rubbing alcohol/acetone and you're golden.

I’ve been using acetone… I guess I’ve been doing it all wrong.

 

[Phantom]

Some time ago I was bored enough to make this short video to showcase the effect of various solvents.
You might use the first few if you dare and be quick and careful. But better you don't.

Diecast models are pieces of metal covered by paint and clear coat. Similar to cars.

I wouldn't call a tampo printed detail to be similar to an automotive coating

 

[Purpleplane]

I normally just use a soft clean makeup brush...I don't use any liquids. All I need so far is just to remove dust..and it works great.