Vulpex Liquid Soap - any thoughts/experience?

[Clinton1]

I’ve used the “3 parts turps, 3 parts raw linseed oil, 3 parts vinegar, 1 parts meths” for cleaning finishes on old furniture.
I’ve been experimenting with Vulpex Liquid Soap as its conservator grade.
Been happy with it on grime and haven’t put it to use on anything of real value/importance yet.
I’m considering using it as a cleaner on a valued French polished piece.
it’s a tool, so while condition is overall good, the handling of it has put on a fair bit of grime.
Here is the result of 7 “wipe on, wipe off” with a cloth with a 1:7 part water based solution.
On old Mahogany that was treated with French polish.
Before and after photos.
Any commentary about pro’s/con’s of Vulpex Soap appreciated.
Bit apprehensive about stepping up with the soap to the higher value item

[dubrosa22]

On very old woodwind instrument restoration I have used Vulpex liquid soap (like the stuff in this link Vulpex Liquid Soap - 100 ml – Koodak Jewellers' Supplies although I didn't purchase from this site but somewhere else I've forgotten the name of).

I used it to remove grime and surface oils on boxwood and cocuswood flutes and clarinets. A couple of which are 200 years old but still playable so keeping them stable and not interfering with their PH is important. These instruments if not previously restored incorrectly have no finish (varnish, etc.) at all. They should only have been oiled regularly with linseed oil or food oils. Rapeseed, olive or almond oil, etc.

I used the Vulpex at about a 50/50 ratio with white spirits. Gentle rub with a cloth all over and then a wipe off with a dry cloth and then a rub with a water-only wet cloth again and then another dry cloth. Then crevices and toneholes get individual treatment with cotton tips. The bore gets a similar treatment. After this I used sweet almond oil very gradually.

Worked very well for me. Retained patina and colour but cleaned it very well. Use gloves.

V

[Clinton1]

Thanks V.
I’m cautious as I’m stepping up more levels than I’m comfortable with.

[dubrosa22]

If you have similar scraps to the pieces you wish to clean, it might be best to do some tests. I did so first.