How to Clean View Master Reels
View-Masters were first sold in 1939. The first reels began as custom blue ring reels. These early reels are hard to find as they were produced in orders of 24 at a time. Production of the View-Master reels grew in number over the years, along with the public love for the View-Master. Today, View-Masters are used as promotional tools by many companies, and have 3D capabilities. The key to the life of the View-Master is to keep it's reels clean for viewing. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Reel cleaning sticks
- Soft paintbrush
- Latex-free gloves
- Tissue (non-lotion, non-aloe)
Instructions
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1
Put on the latex-free gloves before cleaning the reels. It is important not to transfer oils and dirt from your fingertips onto the reels.
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2
Dust off any debris or dust from the reel with the soft paintbrush. Brush from the inside of the reel out, with an outward sweeping motion. Work with each slide square individually, being aware of any dust or debris that may try to become trapped beneath the reel. Brush any debris free with the brush.
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3
Rub gently on the reel screens with a latex-free, hi-polymer reel cleaning stick. These work much like an eraser. Gently work the stick back and forth, rubbing off any smudge or grime that may be stuck onto the reel. These sticks may be purchased online or at stereo equipment stores.
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4
Polish the reel with the tissue until the reel looks clean and smudge-free.
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Check for any missed smudges or debris, and repeat the cleaning process if needed.
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Tips & Warnings
A soft cotton cloth may work effectively for polishing a smudge off of a reel. If you can't find a reel cleaning stick, a hi-polymer eraser may work in a pinch. These erasers are the all white, plastic ones. Be careful when rubbing. Rub gently with slow motions. View-Master cleaning brushes can also be purchased at stereo equipment stores.
Don't put a dirty reel into a View-Master. Don't attempt to use an eraser other than a hi-polymer eraser. Don't attempt to use water when cleaning a reel.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Cartoon Eye image by hellotim from Fotolia.com
