Method One: Using Spit Buy several cotton swabs . Using your spit to clean a work of art might seem both crazy and profane, but it's a method museum curators around the world use. Saliva has enough enzymes to break down dirt and grime, but not so much that it will damage the paint. [1] It'll take a lot of cotton swabs, though, so stock up with a full box. Be aware that this method takes some patience — ask a museum intern how many hours it can take to clean a large painting this way. (Hint: It's more than 2.) But if you want to meticulously clean your painting with almost zero risk of damage to the oils, this is the way to go. Lightly wet the swab with your spit . You don't want the cotton soaking wet, but it should be wet enough to pick up any dirt particles with ease. Gently dab the wet cotton over the painting . Don't move the cotton from side to side, but instead up and down in small, soft dotting motions. Aim to work around a...