How to Clean a Tin Lithograph

Lunchboxes and old collectors items are often made of painted tin. Cleaning these tin lithographs--or litho, as they are sometimes known--is relatively simple and easy. Unfortunately, there is no way to be absolutely sure how your tin lithograph will respond to cleaning chemicals, so always try using a simple damp cloth to wipe away soil first. If you absolutely must use chemicals to clean your tin litho, even mild ones, test the solution on an inconspicuous spot first.

Things You'll Need

• Clean, dye-free cloths
• Window cleaner

Instructions

1. Wipe soil away from your tin lithograph with a clean, damp cloth.

2. Spritz a clean, dye-free cloth with bleach-free window cleaner like Windex.

3. Wipe the tin litho with the Windex-dampened cloth. One or two passes should be sufficient to remove any rust, oil or grease.

4. Follow up immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Wipe down the entire tin lithograph to remove any traces of window cleaner. Gently buff the tin dry with a dry cloth.

References

• Alphadrome