Thanks alot! Cool drums. I learn something everyday on this forum!

If they are really dusty and have a fragile finish, I would start with an air blow gun with a regulator. Only use as much pressure as necessary to remove the dust. NOTE: If your air pressure is too high, you run the risk of blowing off the finish in sheets!

You will still need the other methods discussed, but the air will remove a good portion of the debris that will scratch the finish if rubbed. Use a wash bucket with a false bottom. I use this for my car- it keeps the (lamb's wool pad in the case of the cars) from touching the bottom of the bucket where the dirt collects. If it is really nasty, change water often.

Thanks for the advice everyone! Here's a somewhat dim picture of them all cleaned up.

(If anyone has a wood block holder, let me know!)

those are really cool and look to have cleaned up nicely.