Remove loose dust before introducing moisture. Otherwise, particles may become muddy residue that is pushed into grain, crevices and edge paint.
Before starting
- Inspect seams, the base and handle attachments for dust.
- Select a soft brush, gentle air removal or suction to suit the material.
- Keep tools clean and separate from those used on dark-coloured items.
- Reassess the remaining stains after dust removal.
Working sequence
- Remove dust gently from top to bottom.
- Use suitably small tools for crevices.
- Clear accumulated dust from the tools as you work.
- Only then proceed to a small wet-treatment test.
Suede, ageing finishes and loose decorations cannot tolerate hard brushes or strong suction. Dry treatment also requires a stability assessment.