Old Lures

[DADAKOTA]

FIL gave me some old tackleboxes full of various lures, hooks, soft plastics, etc.  Some of the lures have a whitish film on them I assume from the adverse reaction of soft plastics and old skirt material  with the plastic tackle box.  What  is the best way to clean these baits and remove the whitish film?  Those still in their boxes look fine.  Never seen so many bombers, hellbenders, and mud bugs.  Bass orenos, lucky 13s, torpedos, Big Os, hula poppers, and jitterbugs as well.

[Dutch]

I’d try something like Totally Awesome from Dollar General on one bait.  Everything else that comes to mind will strip the original finish.

[Bushbeater]

I've had that issue before and never really found a solution. Maybe the Magic Erasers?

[Flysmallie]

A good scrubbing with a toothbrush and some dish detergent. Then a little hand polish with some wax. They will be good as new (almost). 

Magic erasers will do a good job of erasing some of the paint. Those things are a lot harsher on painted surfaces than what people think. If you don't believe me take one to a spot on the hood of your car. 

[Quillback]

Yeah Magic Eraser is basically a very fine grit sandpaper, I would not use it.  

[Vintage Tackle Guy]

I do a lot of restoration work and I have never found a chemical that will remove film like that and leave the paint/plastic etc. intact. I would choose the lures with the least value, those with other damage and so on. Try soaking them in a solution of warm water with Dawn Dishwashing liquid for various periods of time periodically brushing them gently with a toothbrush and then soaking again.  I wouldn't leave a lure in overnight until you are sure they won't become waterlogged. Wood soaks up water and the paint will then peel from the inside out. If you can remove the hooks it will help. Microfiber rags are good and non-abrasive. Also, some automotive waxes contain oils that might help once the worst is cleaned off. You can also try WD40, but again, experiment with a lure that is mostly a lost cause. Be sure to wash off the oil after the film is removed. Bottom line is - patience and persistence, a good toothbrush and hard work. Good Luck! Great haul!

[DADAKOTA]

I ended up using a my wife's blow dryer.  Film gets hot and liquefies.  Quick wipe with a soft cloth and they look great.