Safeguarding History: A Guide to Cleaning Ancient Codices

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In the world of cleaning and preserving historical documents, particularly codices, there is a delicate balance between thorough cleansing and protecting these valuable artifacts from harm. Codices, which are ancient manuscript books, require special attention and care to ensure their longevity. This blog post will walk you through the critical aspects of safely cleaning codices, from understanding the requirements to differentiating between cleaning and sanitizing, as well as offering practical tips on using bleach and dishwashers. Finally, we’ll provide additional resources and download options for more detailed information and guides.

What are the requirements?

Before embarking on the task of cleaning codices, it is vital to gather the appropriate tools and materials. First, invest in soft, lint-free cloths and microfiber pads designed for gentle usage. Additionally, you’ll need natural bristle brushes to avoid causing damage to the manuscript’s surface. It’s essential to have blotting paper and clean, distilled water on hand for any moisture-based cleaning methods. Furthermore, ensure that you are working in a controlled environment. This means a clean workspace, ideally with controlled temperature and humidity levels to avoid sudden fluctuations that may harm the codices. Wearing clean gloves to handle the materials will also prevent oils from your skin from causing any damage.

Cleaning vs sanitising

Cleaning:

Cleaning codices is primarily about removing particulate matter, dust, and dirt that can accumulate on the pages and covers over time. The process involves using a soft brush or a gentle vacuum to dislodge and remove any loose debris. In some cases, gentle rubbing with a slightly damp microfiber cloth can help remove surface stains. However, caution is paramount; improper cleaning can lead to abrasion, ink smearing, or even tearing of the pages. It’s generally advisable to start from the outer edges of the codices and work inward, using short, gentle strokes. Employing a light touch is critical, especially when dealing with older, fragile volumes. If you’re unsure about a particular cleaning method, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional conservator.

Sanitising:

Sanitizing codices goes a step beyond cleaning, aiming to kill microbes and prevent mold growth, which can degrade the quality of the manuscript over time. This process necessitates the use of chemicals, often in diluted forms, to avoid harming the parchment or paper. The use of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol in low concentrations is commonly recommended. These substances can be lightly applied with a soft cloth, but ensure that they evaporate quickly to minimize exposure and potential damage. Note that sanitizing should not be as frequently undertaken as cleaning; over-sanitization can weaken the document’s materials.

Getting it right

Getting the process right involves patience and expertise. Begin by thoroughly assessing the state of the codices. Identify areas that need more attention and plan your approach. Never rush through the cleaning process, as hasty actions can easily result in irreversible damage. Documentation is another critical facet of getting it right. Take before and after photos of each codex to monitor its condition. Keep a log of the cleaning agents used and the methods applied. This not only helps in tracking the document’s preservation status but also assists future preservation efforts.

Tips for using bleach

Using bleach on codices is highly controversial and generally discouraged due to its aggressive nature and potential to cause more harm than good. However, if bleach use is deemed absolutely necessary, utmost caution is required. Always dilute bleach significantly — a 3% bleach solution can be used on an extremely limited basis under controlled conditions. Never apply bleach directly to the manuscript. Instead, use a moistened, well-wrung-out cloth and test it on an inconspicuous edge first. Watch closely for any adverse reactions such as discoloration or fabric weakening. Post-bleaching, ensure the codex is thoroughly dried using blotting paper to absorb any remaining moisture.

Tips for using your dishwasher

Using a dishwasher for cleaning codices may sound absurd but can be applicable for storage containers, not the codices themselves. To clean containers without risk to the documents, use the gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents that may leave residue. Placement in the dishwasher should ensure that items do not move around during the wash, which could cause scratching or warping. Always hand-dry these containers with lint-free cloths to avoid any moisture residue before placing the codices back inside.

More information

For those interested in delving deeper into the realm of manuscript preservation, numerous resources are available. The American Institute for Conservation provides a wealth of articles and guidelines tailored to document conservation. Similarly, the Library of Congress offers extensive resources and staff assistance on this topic. Seeking professional advice and consultation from experienced conservators can provide invaluable insights and ensure that your codices receive the best possible care. Participating in workshops and seminars related to document preservation can also keep you up to date with evolving techniques and best practices.

Download

File

For a comprehensive guide on cleaning codices, including detailed instructions and additional tips, download our exclusive PDF file, designed to provide a step-by-step approach. This file is an excellent resource for both novices and experienced conservators.