Bakelite is a synthetic resin that has been developed to replace celluloid, plastic and rubber used in a wide variety of household items. Bakelite was once widely used in industry and electrical engineering due to its non-flammability. It has become an essential material in the military industry, and due to its low cost and ductility, Bakelite can be found in many kitchens, jewelry and jewelry. In any of its forms, Bakelite can become dirty and collect dust, so you need to know how to clean it up.
Steps
Step 1. Make sure the item is actually made of Bakelite as other synthetic materials cannot be cleaned with the recommended cleaning agents
- Place the item under the hot tap water. If it smells like formaldehyde, then it's Bakelite. If it smells like camphor or burnt milk, then it's not Bakelite.
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Clean Bakelite Step 1 - Rub the item with your hand, applying slight pressure, until you heat it slightly. If an item emits a formaldehyde odor, then it is made of Bakelite.
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Clean Bakelite Step 1
Step 2: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any loose dirt, dust, or debris
Step 3. Apply a small amount of metal polish to a second clean rag. 4 Rub all of the Bakelite with a firm, circular rubbing motion to apply the polish with a rag
- The main constituent of bakelite is formaldehyde, so any heat that results from the retention of a product from it can lead to a characteristic odor.
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Clean Bakelite Step 4 - Any metal attached to or part of a product will benefit from a liquid metal polish.
- The best liquid polish can be slightly abrasive, which will help remove debris or residue that has adhered to the product.
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Clean Bakelite Step 4
Step 5. Leave the polish and let it dry until a dull matte film forms
Step 6. Hand wipe off the film to remove dirt and debris and bring out the shine
Repeat the cleaning and wiping process until you are satisfied with the shine
Advice
- Highly shiny surfaces on products, such as old phone cases or radios, can become dull, scratched, or shattered. It can be very difficult to repair, but you can try hard polishing the surface with liquid metal polish.
- The real color of Bakelite is amber, so if your rag turns brown or yellow after wiping, then don't worry, this is a normal part of the process and the product will not be damaged.
- Before applying liquid metal polish or wiping, use a toothbrush to remove dirt and dust from grooves and engravings on the object.
- Use cotton swabs to clean, polish, and wipe in hard-to-reach areas.
Warnings
- Many Bakelite items such as radios, telephones, and jewelry are sought after by collectors. Do not perform tests that would damage the value of the item, such as the hot needle test, in which a hot electric needle is inserted into the material.
- Damaged Bakelite, such as on items that have been exposed to the sun for a long time or have cigarette burns, are unlikely to be repaired.