Best way to clean Bakelite?

tallen702 · Apr 3, 2019

Finally got the new grips in for my Duramatic the other day. OEM Bakelite. Anyone here have a good cleaner they'd recommend for Bakelite? Need to clean up the checkering on these things. I've seen plenty of suggestions via Google, but they vary so much I'd rather have someone with practical experience give me some pointers. Thanks in advance!

Doco Overboard · Apr 3, 2019

Maybe try some Flitz or sinichrome polish on a soft rag.
When I think of bakelight it reminds me of early black plastic so anything with petroleum may be more harmful than good.
Have to be careful In thinking so they don’t become hazey. Somebody will know.

bbrown · Apr 3, 2019

Toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.

Combloc · Apr 3, 2019

That's what I use.

fred2207 · Apr 3, 2019

bbrown said:
Toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.

This above. Don't use Flitz or other abrasives as they may dull the finish. Watered down rubbing compound, mixed with tooth paste will also work but be careful. Only use a soft tooth brush and do not use a cotton cloth.

somd_mustangs · Apr 4, 2019

I usually start with a soft toothbrush, slightly warm water, and liquid dishsoap.
I've never tried toothpaste but sounds like it would work.
Hot water, chemicals, etc can change the color (e.g. from black to brown) depending on the compounds in the grips - so can direct sunlight.
That's a real concern on the old Colt hard rubber grips like found on the early Model M (hammerless) etc.

I'd test the process on the back side of the grips first, or better yet a set of broken/damaged grips.
If you have patience, and depending how "loaded up" the checkering is, you might wind up using a toothpick or plastic dental pick to help dig out the goop first.

lowoncash · Apr 4, 2019

Jewelers rouge and a buffing wheel.

Just get a compatible color.

Combloc · Apr 4, 2019

I would think that's too aggressive.

buellsfurn · Apr 4, 2019

pumice stone and oil maybe with toothbrush

somd_mustangs · Apr 5, 2019

Buffing wheel and/or pumice won't work for checkered grips.
Bakelite is too fragile to be messing around with anything but careful "by hand" methods...
the edges especially are prone to chipping and cracking, and you have to be careful when tightening the grip screws.... only finger tight.

tallen702 · Apr 7, 2019

somd_mustangs said:
...and you have to be careful when tightening the grip screws.... only finger tight.

Especially with something like this Hi-Standard Dura-Matic. The grip is one solid piece and acts as the magazine well. Break it, and it's time to start searching for another OEM replacement.

Best way to clean Bakelite?

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