Photo Cleaning and Repair

Before storing or copying old negatives, slides or prints, ensure that they are as clean as possible, but be very careful. Improper cleaning of photographic materials can cause serious and irreversible damage. Rather than risk further damage, only perform cleaning procedures that can be safely undertaken, then use digital restoration techniques to restore and improve the image while leaving the original print unaltered.

Cleaning Procedures

For film and glass plate negatives, transparencies (slides) and prints, brush dusty or soiled materials carefully with a clean, soft brush, from the center outward toward the edges. If necessary to remove things like mould and mildew, wipe very gently with a lint-free cleaning cloth moistened with isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol). Test this first on an unimportant picture or a small, insignificant area of a photo. It should remove grease, marks and hopefully mildew without softening the emulsion and will dry quickly. Do not attempt to clean with water or solvent-based cleaners such as window cleaner. 

Professional Help Required

Situations that require professional help include:

• Photographs or negatives adhered to their enclosures or frame glass

• Negatives that are brittle, discolored or sticky