Between 1935 and 2009, Eastman Kodak manufactured Kodachrome film. This film was used for still photographs in many publications and for moving pictures and slides. Though Kodachrome film is no longer made by Kodak, large numbers of people still have their memories recorded on Kodachrome slides. The film was a favorite for National Geographic photographers and is memorialized by the singer Paul Simon. When Kodachrome slides get dusty and dirty, using water and regular cleaning supplies to clean them may damage the film. To keep your Kodachrome slides in the best possible condition, it's essential to treat them carefully and correctly.
Instructions
Cleaning Slides
1. Wash your hands thoroughly using soap and water. Allow your hands to air dry thoroughly. When cleaning Kodachrome slides, having clean hands is essential; grungy hands may further dirty your slides. Additionally, moist hands, or a stray bit of fluff from a towel, will impact the Kodachrome slide cleaning process.
2. Moisten a soft white, clean cloth, cotton ball or cotton swap with the emulsion cleaner if your slide is from the 1960s through 2007. Moisten the cloth, cotton ball or cotton swab with the Kodak film cleaner if the slide is from the 1950s or earlier.
3. Hold the slide's edges with your off hand. Wipe the front and back of the slide with the moistened cloth, cotton ball or cotton swab, using your dominant hand. Continue to hold the slide by the edges. Be very gentle when wiping -- a light touch is all that's needed.
4. Allow the slide to air dry for a few minutes before placing it into storage to ensure the slide is completely dry.
