Pachinko cleaning should remove dirt without removing history. Old playfield graphics, labels, plated trim and plastics can react badly to aggressive cleaners, so the safest approach is gradual and well documented.
Before cleaning
Unplug the machine, remove loose balls, photograph the current condition and identify areas with flaking artwork, rust, cracked plastics or exposed wiring. Those areas deserve more caution than ordinary dust.
Work from dry to wet
Loose dust should come off before any damp cleaning. Soft brushes, controlled vacuuming and microfiber cloths reduce the chance of turning dust into abrasive slurry. If a surface needs a cleaner, test a small hidden area first.
Do not soak the playfield
Printed and painted surfaces can be sensitive to moisture and solvents. Avoid household “magic” products whose chemistry you have not tested on the specific material.
Metal and rust
Surface oxidation on balls, screws or trim is a different problem from structural corrosion. Remove loose rusty balls from circulation and evaluate valuable plated parts conservatively before polishing away original finish.
After cleaning
Allow damp-cleaned parts to dry fully before reassembly or power. Compare your after photos with the original record so missing clips, springs or loose parts are caught before the machine goes back on display.