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Kind of a dumb question- how do you clean a file? Mine's full of plastic dander.

Use a wire brush.

Thanks!

Some people might advise using fire (eg a lighter) but this will cause 2 problems:
1. toxic fumes
2. it might affect the temper (ie make the steel softer).
you can use either a brass or steel brush as previously advised.

tomcat31 wrote:
Use a wire brush.

Yes, larger hardware shops sell small wire brushes (about toothbrush size) which are perfect for file cleaning

There are special file cleaning brushes (when I was at school, they were called "file cards" - it's a short-bristled stiff wire brush.).

Burning the plastic out is not recommended due to the temper issues ( you run the risk of not only softening the hardened steel, but also encouraging rust/corrosion).

Acetone or ethylacetate or THF. Just wash it of