How to fix color on Electrolux XXX?

[ct77]

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving!

I had another quick question about one of my Electrolux XXX vacuums. I was cleaning it and managed to get the metal looking pretty good. But the covering material on top (is it some kind of vinyl?) has spots where it's fading and discolored. I guess it could be forgiven and acceptable considering how old the vacuum is! But it would look MUCH better if I was able to fix the color somehow. Does anyone have any ideas? Is there maybe some kind of paint that might work? Or would it be better to just leave it as it is? The vacuum would look really nice I think if it wasn't for the discoloration. This vacuum had a bit of a harder life I think...the other XXX I bought is in better condition.

- Chris

 

[electrolux137]

Personally, if it was me I'd leave it as-is. I've found the hard way that trying to "improve" an old vacuum cleaner like this usually ends in sadness.

 

[caligula]

Color of the upper section of the Electrolux XXX.

This is known as 'Leatherette,' and it varied with each model. Likewise, the color of the paint on the various model XXX's, going from a very dark grey (1937) to a robin's egg blue (1955/56.) There were improvements galore, and in 1948 Electrolux added a whole array of attachments, including the cord winder and ride on tool caddy, known as the Companion, which are shown in the second pic. The model LX, which followed in 1952.What you have is perhaps the finest vacuum cleaner ever made. If you want to know the history of this model, ask me, and I'll direct you to an awesome thread.

Alex Taber.

Caligula was the cat used in my avatar.

 

[caligula]

To read the backstory

on this and other models go to the archives of 2013, locate thread 19227 near the top of the page, and click on Lux 30, XXX tools, by Powermate.

This is a very long thread filled with all sorts of information. There are some great pictures of attachments, machines, patent info, stories about the early days of the Electrolux factory in Connecticut, and a lot more. It will tell you everything you need to know about your Electrolux.

 

[ct77]

Thank you for the replies so far!

Yeah I think, unless I find out about more concrete methods to restore the color on the material I will just leave it as is. I have had some luck before with touching up leatherette on vintage cameras, but of course this is totally different and a much larger surface area to deal with. I wanted to make it look a little better, but honestly I'm also kind of hesitant to mess with it.

Alex, thank you for the great information! I really like the neat Art Deco design of the XXX. I've also just started reading about Lurelle Guild. His designs were pretty interesting, especially his futuristic concept drawings of cars and trains during the 1930's and 40's. I want to see if I can find a book about him.

Actually, while I'm on that subject...can you recommend any books about the history of the Electrolux company or Lurelle Guild?

- Chris

 

[caligula]

Electrolux History.

Hi Chris:

The only book I know of is "ELECTROLUX the first 40 years," which unfortunately was only available to employees back in the 1960's. I have a copy but not with me. However, there are excerpts in the thread I told you about. Yes, I worked for Electrolux in the late 1960's, and sold both the model G, and the 1205. But while you love the model XXX, my favorite is the LX, which followed in 1952. In fact, it's my daily driver.

Message me at [email protected] and let's talk Electrolux.

Here's the cover of a newsletter from 1994/95.

 

[ct77]

Thank you, Alex. I just sent you an email.

 

[huskyvacs]

That's not discolored, that's how it's supposed to look, and do not clean it with anything other than a damp cloth and mild soap gently. It's a cardboard type material and it will crumble apart.

 

[caligula]

Electrolux XXX.

Hi Chris:

Sorry about not responding to your email, but I was involved in an automobile accident, and was just released from the hospital this afternoon. Interestingly I could go from here to San Francisco three weeks ago with no problems, but drive down the road with my housemate, and be with him when he totaled the Jeep.

I'll get back to you in a day or two when I feel better.

Alex Taber.

 

[ct77]

Oh no!! I am so sorry, Alex! Yikes, what bad luck and right before Christmas. Yes definitely, take all the time you need and I hope you recover well.

 

[fantomfan57]

Alex,

I am so sorry that happened to you. I wish you a speedy recovery. Your expertise is valuable.