From Commercial Cleaners to Homemade Products: Care and Cleaning of Wooden Furniture and Objects

Friday, October 3

Maintenance and cleaning are important steps in both the preservation and restoration of wooden furniture and objects. Even simple dust deposits can cause further damage to objects by creating microclimates and nutrient-rich substrates for pests. At the other end of the spectrum, in the case of contaminated collections, dust may require special precautions for safe removal. The field of cleaning is constantly evolving thanks to the work of chemists, and it remains both relevant and significant.

As part of this study day, the topics that may be addressed include: collection maintenance policies (past and present); protective measures when handling contaminated objects or those with harmful soiling (natural materials, asbestos, pesticide treatments, fire soot, etc.); innovative cleaning methods and materials; damage or consequences from past cleaning practices; and ethical questions when soiling is considered an integral part of the object…

This study day is aimed at conservator-restorers, craftsmen, scientists, preventive conservation specialists, and curators who have dealt with this type of issue—whether from a technical, scientific, ethical, or historical perspective.

We will give preference to joint presentations but also accept individual ones that highlight the complementary nature of different disciplines.

You may submit your proposals (including a title and summary of no more than 500 words), along with a presentation of the speakers, to the address bois@sfiic.com by June 15, 2025.

The GBM Coordination Committee