Q&A for How to Clean Old Photos

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  • Question
    Can I blow on photographs to remove dust if I don't have compressed air?
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Annie Tao is an award-winning Professional Lifestyle and Commercial Photographer and the Owner of Annie Tao Photography based in the San Francisco Bay Area. While some of her commercial clients include Starbucks, PayPal, Rice University, and United Airlines, Annie is also passionate about capturing genuine emotions and real moments in people’s lives. She has been recognized as Kodak’s Featured Photographer and has had work featured in The Wall Street Journal, Brides Magazine, and Glamour & Grace.
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Expert Answer
    No, I strongly recommend against it. Moisture is your number one enemy when it comes to photographs. If you blow on them, you may unintentionally put moisture from your mouth on to the surface of the photo.
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  • Question
    How do I know if a cleaning supply will be okay on a photo?
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Annie Tao is an award-winning Professional Lifestyle and Commercial Photographer and the Owner of Annie Tao Photography based in the San Francisco Bay Area. While some of her commercial clients include Starbucks, PayPal, Rice University, and United Airlines, Annie is also passionate about capturing genuine emotions and real moments in people’s lives. She has been recognized as Kodak’s Featured Photographer and has had work featured in The Wall Street Journal, Brides Magazine, and Glamour & Grace.
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Expert Answer
    You can't use any liquids, sprays, or items that will spread moisture. Clean, dry cloths and canned air should be okay.
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  • Question
    Is there anything better than canned air for this?
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Annie Tao is an award-winning Professional Lifestyle and Commercial Photographer and the Owner of Annie Tao Photography based in the San Francisco Bay Area. While some of her commercial clients include Starbucks, PayPal, Rice University, and United Airlines, Annie is also passionate about capturing genuine emotions and real moments in people’s lives. She has been recognized as Kodak’s Featured Photographer and has had work featured in The Wall Street Journal, Brides Magazine, and Glamour & Grace.
    Annie Tao
    Professional Photographer
    Expert Answer
    Yes, lens bulb dusters are actually the ideal option. They're similar to compressed air, but they're a little gentler.
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  • Question
    Can I use sanitizer to clean the photo?
    Community Answer
    No, I wouldn't recommend using sanitizer as it might damage your photo.
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  • Question
    How do I clean a 100+ year old portrait?
    Community Answer
    Get it done professionally, especially if it has "silvered." A local archivist may know who to contact.
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