Soiling on Traditional and Historical Textiles - A Glimpse on Cleaning Procedures

Abstract

This article analyzes the significance of textiles as an integral part of rich cultural heritage of India, chief fibres used in traditional antique textiles of museum and the soiling on traditional antique textiles. Soiling can be classified according to its source, potential to cause damage, and the possible methods of removal. Soiling on historical textiles may be deposited from functional use or handling, the site of excavation or recovery, air borne pollutants. Classification of soiling causes of soiling, the treatment procedures developed by conservators, various types of methods of cleaning textiles ranges from mechanical surface cleaning to wet and solvent cleaning are also discussed in this paper. Proper documentation is a mandatory step for any kind of conservation, so proper documentation system before cleaning is also cited in this article. The solvents used in textile cleaning and the limitation of wet and chemical cleaning are also mentioned in this article.