How do I clean my wood types

Hi there

I just bought my first wood types for handprinting (so excited) and now I am looking for a product to clean them and make sure they don’t become brittle over time. Do you have a link to a shop where I can buy type wash? Preferably with shipping to DK.

Much appreciated, thanks

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I have been collecting and using wood type for over three decades. The wash/preservative that I have always preferred in kerosene. If you can find “white” kerosene (the type used in space-heaters) all the better, it will have less residual odor than ordinary kerosene.

Kerosene is not as flammable as gasoline (which is not recommended at all!). It does a very good job in cleaning up ink AND has the added bonus of leaving a very thin residue after it evaporates which serves well to protect the wood type from moisture and from drying out. It basically leaves a thin oily film to protect the type surface.

The big advantage to kerosene is that it is relatively inexpensive and readily available. Here in the rural Midwest we can actually take our empty cans to certain gas stations in our area and simply have them refilled right there. These stations have a kerosene pump out back or off to the side. My shop is in the basement of my house so the ‘white’ kerosene keeps the odor factor down and contributes to domestic harmony.

Mineral Spirits on a rag and wipe the type down. For the counters use a tooth brush. The toothbrush also helps for more caked areas of ink.

Always wear gloves when handling mineral and have a bit of ventilation.

Casey

Thank you, guys for great advice! I have been wandering the streets of Copenhagen with my wood types and noone have been able to help me. Thank you.