Hi Dee,

I have used both and prefer the white PP for a few reasons:

1. Easier to see if dirt is coming off and whether to repeat a presoak, or just to see that something is happening

2. Easier to see if colour is bleeding

3. Better if you use some bleaches like hydrogen peroxide or sodium borohydride which are catalyzed by the metal

4. Stainless steel, even when a good quality, can corrode even a bit (have seen pitting/rust)

Hope that helps,

Shirley

On 10 June 2015 at 10:37, Dee Stubbs-Lee <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

Hello,

We are in the process of planning a new multi-purpose conservation laboratory and are currently gathering supplier information and quotes on the equipment needed. We have requested a large washing table that could be used for occasional wet treatments of both textiles and paper artifacts. We had originally imagined that this would be made of stainless steel, however one of my colleagues has come across a reference to textile sinks made of high density polypropylene. We would appreciate opinions on which material would be preferable for a variety of potential washing and bleaching treatments.

Many thanks for your help,

Dee

Dee Stubbs-Lee, CAPC, MA

Conservator / Restauratrice

New Brunswick Museum/

Musée du Nouveau-Brunswick

277 Douglas Avenue

Saint John, New Brunswick

E2K 1E5

Canada

(506)643-2341