Exploring on how to clean antique oil cans well
Antique oil cans are just one of the many collectible items that fall under the category referred to as petroliana. The main purpose of these containers was to store oil used in the lubrication of machine parts and in the early days they could have been acquisitioned from nearly any gas station. Therefore, the vast majority of oil cans are imprinted with the brand of the manufacturer. Certain antique oil cans that date back to the early eighteenth century are not branded, but these pieces are fairly rare and expensive, which makes them difficult to acquire. However, it is necessary to point out that the scarcity of these collector’s items also comes from the fact that customers usually threw them out once their content was depleted.
Given these considerations, the following guide needs to emphasize the importance of cleaning and maintaining the antique oil cans in your collection properly. Performing these operations correctly mainly implies finding a detergent that will not affect the paint and diminish the value of the antique can, but which is able to get rid of the accumulated grime. The ideal category of detergent is the water soluble one. Before starting the scrubbing process, it is advisable to wipe out the dust and debris on the container using dry cloths made of cotton.
The general guidelines for the concentration of the concocted solution used in the rinsing process state that it should never exceed two cups per half of gallon of warm water. However, depending on the cleaning power of the detergent, the concentration might vary so try to stick with the instructions on the label, if present. Next, you will be required to stir up the solution, until it becomes homogeneous using the brush with which you will scrub the antique oil cans.
Now, keep in mind that the ideal way to remove the majority of stains on the antique oil containers without damaging the print or paint is via towels or clean cotton rags. Scrubbing it using the brush is generally recommended only when the stain is particularly stubborn. After removing all the stains from the oil container, you will need to rinse out the detergent mixture with the aid of a clean towel or rag imbibed in warm water. It is necessary to ensure that the entire surface of the can is detergent-free, because the solution has an over-time solvent effect on the enamel paint. Dry out the container and retouch any potential damage to the surface with enamel paint and voila, you’ve got yourself a perfectly preserved collection piece.
In regards to cleaning the inside section of the oil can, the operation is much simple and will require far less care, since it is not visible. Depending on the size of the opening, you will either be able to pour the same concentration water and detergent as for the external section directly or using a funnel. It should not take the mixture more than thirty minutes to perform the job, but you will need to shake it a bit in order to get rid of stubborn oil or grime accumulations. Pour out the solution and pour in warm water, shake it vigorously and repeat the procedure until the water looks clean.
Looking for vintage oil cans or what is also known as antique oil cans can be a really exciting affair so get involved in the search today to start a valuable collection today!
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