A Quick Guide to Cleaning Your N Scale Train

Cleaning model trains is a delicate business. If you use cleaners that are too harsh, you could take off some of the paint. With N scale trains, things are more difficult because the models are so small. For the best train care, follow our quick guide to cleaning your N scale trains.

Gathering Supplies

To clean your model train, you’ll want to gather some special supplies. Here’s what you need:

• A foam cradle
• Dish soap
• Water
• Rubbing alcohol or white vinegar
• Soft brushes
• Compressed air
• Makeup sponges

Using a Foam Cradle

The foam cradle is an essential tool for model railroaders. If you’ve never used one, it’s basically a block of foam with a gap in the middle where you can rest your train. Using a cradle means you don’t have to hold the model while cleaning it, which helps reduce getting oil from your hands all over the paint job.

Removing Dust

Before you can tackle any tough grime, you’ll need to remove all the dust from your model. There are a few ways to do this. Soft, clean paintbrushes can help sweep away loose dust. For getting dust out of small crevices, you’re probably going to need the help of compressed air. You can buy compressed air in a can—like the kind used to clean keyboards—or invest in a compressed air gun.

Eliminating Grime

Grime is just a shorthand term for the tougher residues left from oil, dirt, and other materials on your hands when you touch your trains. Over time, it can become difficult to remove. The best option for grime removal is to use a lightly soapy water—about 1 percent dish soap—and carefully wash your model. We recommend using very soft sponges, like makeup sponges, to avoid scratching your model’s paint job.

Cleaning Up Model Wheels

Your train’s wheels are extremely important since they provide power through contact with the track. If you’re having trouble with your train’s speed, dirty wheels could be to blame. Try wiping down the wheels with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or white vinegar. Make sure to get inside all the grooves!

We hope this quick guide to cleaning your N scale train helps you keep your models looking brand new. For N scale locomotives and specialized cleaning supplies, check out Midwest Model Railroad. We have one of the largest selections of trains and modeling supplies, and we’d love to help you build your collection!