Cleaning Lionel Postwar Boxes?

[LS1Heli]

Guys,

I have some really high-quality postwar Lionel boxes. However, over the years they have gotten dusty and maybe a little dirty (just MINOR smudges)

Is there a safe, reliable way of cleaning these? I believe that the are a form of cardboard. I plan on cleaning the standard orange/blue middle classic boxes. 

No brown engine boxes.

Thanks,

 

[underworld]

You might check with a larger antique shop. One that deals with restorations...they can probably tell you what will work without affecting the finish. If they can't help them maybe a museum (they are constantly maintaining and preserving their collection) or a coin shop that also deal in paper money or stamps.

underworld

[csxt30]

I think I remember an article that CTT did on that very subject a while back. I'm pretty sure it was last summer or there abouts. They also talked about the tape on them too.

[LS1Heli]

I kind of remember something like that but can not see to locate it.

 

 

[csxt30]

Let me see if I can find it ! I'll let you know in a little bit !!

[csxt30]

Ok, I found it !! It's on page 48 of the October 2005 issue of CTT !! "How to restore old train boxes".  Hope this helps !!

Thanks, John

[LS1Heli]

Cool thanks!

Do you actually have the issue and does it say anything about cleaning...or simply repair?

[csxt30]

Not much on cleaning. Mostly restoring tears or rips & how to glue them & remove old unwanted tape, fix frayed corners, that kind of stuff.

[LS1Heli]

Well, I guess the best thing to do is just to buy clean boxes in the 1st place! 

 

99% of the boxes I have are just awesome but they make me sneez!