How to Clean the Canvas on Antique Trunks

How to Clean the Canvas on Antique Trunks
Written By
Susan Walworth
Susan Walworth
Published: Oct 27, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

One of the most common types of trunks manufactured between 1880 and 1920 had a flat top. Most of these trunks were covered with canvas. While trunks with intact canvas can be hard to find, it's important to preserve the original covering when possible.

Things You Will Need

  • Paint brush
  • Vacuum
  • Sponge
  1. Brush the canvas covering with a clean, short-bristled paint brush.

  2. Attach the brush attachment to a vacuum and carefully vacuum the surface. Pay careful attention to crevices.

  3. Wet a sponge and squeeze out excess water.

  4. Dab dirty spots lightly with the damp sponge.

The Drip Cap

  • Antique trunks are as popular today as they were when they were manufactured.
  • While trunks with intact canvas can be hard to find, it's important to preserve the original covering when possible.
  • Brush the canvas covering with a clean, short-bristled paint brush.

Photo Credits

Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Susan Walworth

A journalist since 1985, Susan Walworth has written for both weekly and daily newspapers, including "The Eufaula Tribune" and "The Dothan Eagle." She has won numerous state press association awards for photography, news and feature…

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