Cleaning board games isn't as difficult as you might think. Just exercise a bit of caution along the way, and everything should turn out fine.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 10 or more minutes
Here's How:
- Determine as best you can what type of stain you're dealing with.
- Some stains, including water stains and many ink stains are impossible to remove.
- Many games made after 1860 include coated paper on the box and/or game board. The coated paper is usually shiny and it can often be cleaned fairly easily.
- Always test your cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the box or board first.
- Try a mixture of mild soap and lukewarm water first.
- Wash using a damp sponge with a gentle, circular motion.
- If the soap and water mixture doesn't work, try something a little stronger -- but never use abrasive cleaners.
- Always watch closely to see if the cleaning process is damaging the game, and stop right away if you notice any problems.
- Multiple cleanings may be necessary. If so, let the box and/or board dry completely between washings.
- Wood (sometimes used for game pieces) is sturdier than paper, but if the wood is painted, take the same care with it as you would paper.
- Clean with, not against, the grain of wood components.
Tips:
- Try cleaning a game you don't really care about before working on the jewel of your collection. This will allow you to experiment with a variety of soap/water mixtures.
What You Need:
- Board Game
- Water
- Mild Soap
- Sponge
