Maintaining a clean and safe environment for archival collections is essential for preservation. However, not all cleaning methods are equally suitable for every situation. A common question is determining when to dust versus when to vacuum. This blog post explores the differences between these methods, their appropriate applications, and how to make informed decisions to protect and preserve valuable artifacts.
Why Is Dust Harmful to Archival Collections?
Dust is more than just an aesthetic issue; it poses real risks to the preservation of archival collections. Dust particles can be composed of organic matter, pollutants, skin cells, fibers, and minerals. Over time, these particles can attract moisture, fostering mold growth and creating acidic environments that deteriorate organic and inorganic materials alike. Dust can also attract pests, like insects and rodents, which pose additional risks to collections.
Additionally, dust can become embedded in porous surfaces, making it difficult to remove without causing damage. Paper, photographs, textiles, and painted surfaces are especially vulnerable, as particulate matter can become ingrained in fibers and surface layers, leading to discoloration, staining, and even chemical reactions that weaken the material structure. Accumulated dust also accelerates deterioration processes such as oxidation and corrosion on metals and can abrade surfaces if disturbed improperly. In archival settings, dust contamination can obscure information and contribute to the physical degradation of documents and photographs.
Dusting: When and How to Use It
Dusting is most appropriate when working with fragile or delicate objects where the direct suction of a vacuum could cause damage. The primary goal of dusting is to remove loose particles without disturbing the underlying material or surface. The following are guidelines for effective dusting of collections objects.
- Specialized Tools: Use soft brushes, such as horsehair or goat hair brushes, to gently sweep dust off objects.
- HEPA Vacuum Support: Direct the dust toward a HEPA vacuum intake to prevent redistribution into the environment.
- Top-to-Bottom Approach: Dust from the top down to avoid contaminating cleaned areas.
- Support Fragile Parts: Stabilize any loose or delicate components while dusting to prevent breakage.
- Logical Pattern: Move methodically from one area to another to ensure thorough coverage.
Dusting is an important part of any housekeeping plan, but there are other times it can be needed as well.
- As part of a regular cleaning schedule.
- Before storing an object or after it has been on display.
- When dust accumulation is visibly affecting the object.
- Following pest infestations or mold growth to remove contaminants.
Vacuuming: When and How to Use It
Vacuuming is more effective for removing larger debris and dust from floors, storage areas, and non-object surfaces. When vacuuming objects directly, it is crucial to use specialized techniques and equipment to minimize risk. Keep the following in mind when vacuuming objects or collections/exhibit spaces.
- HEPA Filtration: Always use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap fine particles and prevent their release back into the air.
- Variable Suction Settings: Use a low suction setting when cleaning fragile objects. A collections vacuum should offer adjustable power to suit delicate materials.
- Avoid Direct Suction: Use brush heads, micro-attachments, or a fiberglass mesh screen to clean surfaces without direct suction.
- Test Before Cleaning: Always test the vacuum on an inconspicuous area to ensure it will not damage the object.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep the vacuum clean and filters maintained to ensure peak performance.
Like dusting, vacuuming should be part of a regular housekeeping plan, as well as during installation and deinstallation of exhibitions.
- Regularly vacuum floors and public areas, avoiding direct vacuuming of collection objects.
- Clean storage areas to minimize dust buildup and reduce the risk of pest infestations.
- Use vacuuming to remove dust dislodged during manual dusting.
- Prepare objects for storage or exhibition by carefully vacuuming surface dust.
How to Choose a Vacuum
HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration is non-negotiable when selecting a vacuum for collections care. These filters are capable of trapping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, preventing harmful particles from being reintroduced into the environment. This is crucial in collections care, where dust and debris maycontain mold spores, insect fragments, or other contaminants.
A vacuum designed for collections care should have adjustable suction settings. Artifacts and delicate textiles can be easily damaged by excessive suction. Look for a model with variable speed control to customize the power for the material being cleaned.
A lightweight, portable vacuum with a long, flexible hose and a variety of attachments is ideal. This design reduces the risk of bumping into artifacts or causing strain during prolonged use. Collections care often involves long cleaning sessions, so an ergonomic handle and low noise level can reduce fatigue and maintain a peaceful environment, particularly in public-facing spaces.
Making the Right Choice: Dusting vs. Vacuuming
When deciding whether to dust or vacuum, consider the object's fragility, the type of surface, and the level of dust accumulation. Generally:
- Dusting is ideal for fragile, intricate, or porous objects where physical contact is minimal.
- Vacuuming is suitable for sturdier surfaces and larger areas where debris is present or dust has settled densely.
- Combination Cleaning: Sometimes, dusting followed by careful vacuuming (or vice versa) provides the best results, particularly when loose dust must be collected without stirring up particles.
Conclusion
Dusting and vacuuming are both essential techniques in collections care, but each serves a specific purpose. Understanding when to employ each method helps ensure that collections remain safe, clean, and well-preserved. By using the right tools and techniques, collections caretakers can effectively mitigate the risks associated with dust and debris, protecting invaluable cultural heritage for future generations.
Additional Resources:
DHPS Tips: Recommended Cleaning Products for Collections Spaces - DHPSNY
Good Housekeeping (webinar) - DHPSNY
Collection Housekeeping Guide – Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts
Choosing A Museum Vacuum Cleaner – National Park Service
How to Clean Museum Objects Using Brushes and a Vacuum - Cardiff University
Cleaning Books and Shelves - History Nebraska Conservation
Do you have a preservation topic, question, or creative solution you would like us to cover in this series? Reach us by email at info@DHPSNY.org, or connect with us on the DHPSNY Facebook page or DHPSNY Community Facebook Group.
Cover Image: Aston Martin Heritage Trust, https://amht.org.uk/keeping-it-clean/.