How do I clean alabaster statues?

[Loopaleigh]

I have 2 statues that are made of alabaster and I really want to clean them....they are grimy with incense and yellow with age....but I read/heard somewhere that water is damaging to alabaster.....can someone tell me if this is true and if so, how can I clean them properly?

[FlyingBear]

If I remember correctly, you use a soft bristle tooth brush and baking soda. But you might want to call around or check on the net to be sure.

[Rick]

Try a little bit of something like Softscrub on the bottom of the base, where it won't show if something goes 'wrong'... it's good for glass, tile, , non-stick cookware, & other surfaces that are easily damaged by cleaning.

[Rockprincess]

Hydrochloric acid works well...

:devil:

Just kidding, of course. Are they real alabaster? As in marble? Or are they plaster?

[Loopaleigh]

Well I found a site that had household cleaning tips and it says water is ok as long as the item is dryed off really well...I'm going to do as Rick suggested and try a few "not noticable" places first and see how it goes. Thanks everyone!