Montblanc Gold Nib Cleaning

[Solitaire146]

Over time I've discovered my favorite ink from Montblanc is Montblanc Permanent Black.  In my experience, it's been a very solid, dependable ink.  Generally it's not too difficult to clean from my MB fountain pens however I've found it can sometimes "stick" to the engraved lettering on the nib.  Does anyone have suggestions for how to clean the nib to make it look "like new" and remove all or substantially all traces of the permanent black ink?

[loganrah]

This happens with many pigment based inks like Montblanc Permanent Black.

 

My advice is to rub vigorously a microfiber cloth (like the ones for cleaning glasses, I keep old ones for just this use), that usually gets it off without risks scratches to the nib.

 

That said, I don't think there is any point trying to clean it off if you are still using the ink in the pen as it will likely reappear almost immediately. I only bother to clean off this residue if I am changing inks.

 

Learning to live with (or even love) the appearance of an inky nib will make your life with fountain pens a lot easier if you can...

[Dione]

I would prefer to clean my Montblanc gold nibs by carefully using one of their nib wipes as recommended and not rubbing the engraved lettering vigorously with anything that has any possible chance of removing the faintest trace of gold surface engraving. Even a microfibre cloth dipped in water and very carefully used to wipe off the ink would be preferable to any vigorous rubbing. Not that I ever use their permanent black ink as I don't need to but their nib wipes are very good.

[arcfide]

The best solution I have is twofold. Firstly, yes, the pigmented inks have a tendency on the whole to be a bit more sticky, but they don't do any real damage to the nib, and they are only really just leaving the equivalent of carbon dust on the nib. Fortunately, the solvent inside of the ink itself is a pretty good way of getting the nib clean. I find that I can easily clean the nib for the most part by properly wiping the nib after dipping it/filling it. 

 

For a deep clean, such as under the nib or when putting the pen away for a while, then something like a soft toothbrush or cloth with water and patience is usually enough, though I find a cloth to usually work a little better if it is the right weave. 

 

Others have had good luck with ultrasonic cleaners, but I don't think that's necessary just to keep the surface of the nib clean. 

[CS388]

Damp paper towel will remove the old ink from the nib.

No need to rub, just place it on the nib and it will absorb the ink.

[LWJ2]

A soft baby's toothbrush and soapy warm water should work, the bristles are softer than the gold.