Vintage Razor Cleaning and Maintenance

[TimmyBoston]

I am expecting a vintage Gilette Super Speed and I want to know what I should do to clean it up and get it ready for shaving. I've seen scattered desciptions here and there, but I was trying to compile a comprehensive list from all the experts. Also what should be done to keep a vintage DE in working order once it's had its first cleaning?

And while I'm on the subject, what should be done with a modern safety razor, like a HD to keep in top working order for many years? I've heard about soaking it in baby oil every few months, is this a good idea? Borax, metal polish, WD40, soap and water? What should I do?

[Edcculus]

I read in LiesureGuy's Blog That unless it is gold plated, it is to boil it. Scroll down a little ways until you find the part on cleaning. Also, he linked to this discussion on how to clean vintage razors commonly bought from ebay. I dont really know much about the matter, but just passing on what I have seen.

[Gatorade]

I posted in reply# 8 on this thread how I clean the ones I sell as well as my own.

http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=5076

[crosswind]

I have an espresso machine at home and have had pretty good results with this stuff.

http://www.urnex.com/cafiza.htm

It removes coffee, tea, and water stains while leaving a bright and shiny surface on the metal.

I bet it would do a pretty good job on those razors, although I'm not sure if it would damage the lacquer.

I bought the Cafiza from Chris Coffee, http://www.chriscoffee.com/products/...ssoaccs/cafiza
but i'm sure you can get this from nearly any coffee web site.