Best Model Train Tools & Cleaning of 2025

Edward West Avatar
Edward West
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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For hobbyists and enthusiasts of model trains, keeping their miniature locomotives and tracks in pristine condition is a top priority. That's where model train tools and cleaning products come in. These specialized tools and products are designed to help maintain the intricate details and delicate components of model trains. From track cleaning cars to dusting brushes and lubricants, these products can help ensure that your model trains continue to operate smoothly and look their best for years to come.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner for Model Trains Cover #TOP 1
Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner for Model Trains
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Hornby R8087 Track Cleaning Rubber Tool Cover #TOP 2
Hornby R8087 Track Cleaning Rubber Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Vallejo Model Color Wash Paint - Black Cover #TOP 3
Vallejo Model Color Wash Paint - Black
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Model Train Tools & Cleaning

Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner for Model Trains

PL41
Grey
Small
Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner for Model Trains Cover
Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner Track Rubber

The Peco PL-41 Rail Cleaner is designed with exceptional Peco quality and precision engineering, ensuring that you have an effective tool for maintaining your model train tracks. Its easy-to-use and install feature allows you to keep your tracks clean without hassle, enhancing your overall model railway experience. With durable components, this cleaner promises longevity, meaning you can rely on it for consistent performance over time. This product is brand new and comes in factory packaging, making it a reliable choice for any model train enthusiast.

What We Like
Exceptional quality
Precision engineering
Easy to use
Durable components
#TOP 2

Hornby R8087 Track Cleaning Rubber Tool

R8087
Multicolor
Hornby R8087 Track Cleaning Rubber Tool Cover
Hornby R8087 Track Rubber - Spare Parts and Train Accessories for Hornby OO Gauge Model Railway Sets, Cleaning Tools - Track Cleaning Rubber

The Hornby Track Cleaning Rubber is an essential tool for maintaining your model railway. It easily removes any deposits from the top surface of your rails, ensuring smooth operation and enhanced performance. As a leading brand in the model railway industry, Hornby has crafted this product to help both seasoned model makers and beginners alike. With over 100 years of experience, you can trust that this tool will keep your tracks in top condition, allowing you to fully enjoy your railway hobby.

What We Like
Easy to use
Effective cleaning solution
Trusted brand reputation
Enhances model performance
#TOP 3

Vallejo Model Color Wash Paint - Black

VJ76518
Black
35 ml (Pack of 1)
Vallejo Model Color Wash Paint - Black Cover
Vallejo Model Color 35 ml Wash Paints - Black

The Vallejo Wash Paint is a water-based acrylic paint designed specifically for plastic models. Its colour-matched formula ensures that your models will look their best, providing a seamless finish. Being non-toxic and non-flammable, you can use this paint with peace of mind, making it suitable for hobbyists of all ages. This user-friendly paint is perfect for enhancing your modelling experience, allowing you to achieve professional results without the worry of harmful chemicals.

What We Like
Water-based for easy use
Non-toxic for safe application
Colour matched for perfect results
Designed for plastic models
#TOP 4

Hornby R913 Double Ended Con Rod Spanner

R913
Metal
Hornby R913 Double Ended Con Rod Spanner Cover
Hornby R913 Double Ended Con Rod Nut Spanner - Spare Parts and Train Accessories for Hornby OO Gauge Model Railway Sets, Coupling and Modelling Tools

The Hornby Con Rod Spanner is a high-quality tool designed for use with Hornby products, making it essential for model railway enthusiasts. This double-ended spanner provides the convenience of versatile applications, allowing you to easily tighten or loosen con rod nuts. With Hornby's century-long experience in model railway design, you can trust this tool to enhance your modelling projects. Whether you are a seasoned hobbyist or just starting out, this spanner will simplify your coupling and maintenance tasks, ensuring your railway set runs smoothly.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Versatile double-ended design
Easy to use
Trustworthy brand
Ideal for all skill levels
#TOP 5

Hornby TT:120 Model Railway Track Accessories

TT8035
Black
One Size
Hornby TT:120 Model Railway Track Accessories Cover
Hornby TT:120 Model Railway TT8035 DCC Track Turnout Clip Track Pieces Extra Track accessories for Model Railway Sets, Model Train Track Pieces 1:120 Scale, Black

The Hornby TT:120 Track Accessories are essential for model railway enthusiasts. As an authentic Hornby product, these accessories guarantee compatibility with Hornby tracks, ensuring a secure fit. They serve as vital tools for maintaining your model train system, helping to keep everything in optimal condition for smooth and uninterrupted operation. The easy replacement process makes it simple for you to enhance your setup, ensuring that your trains run consistently without hassle.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Easy to use
Ensures smooth train operation
Compatible with Hornby products
#TOP 6

Gaugemaster GM27 Large Track Rubber for Modelling

GM-GM27
Gaugemaster GM27 Large Track Rubber for Modelling Cover
Gaugemaster GM27 Large Track Rubber 77x50x20mm

The Gaugemaster GM27 Track Rubber is specifically designed for modelling use, ensuring that it meets the needs of hobbyists. This item is not a toy, which highlights its serious purpose in the realm of model trains. Measuring 77x50x20mm, its size makes it ideal for various modelling applications. The quality of this track rubber contributes to better track maintenance, promoting smoother operation and enhancing the overall performance of your model railway. You will find that using this product adds convenience to your modelling tasks.

What We Like
Designed for modelling use
Not a toy
Ideal size for various applications
Enhances model railway performance
Convenient for track maintenance
#TOP 7

Gaugemaster GM633 Glass Fibre Pencil for Modelling

GM-GM633
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Gaugemaster GM633 Glass Fibre Pencil for Modelling Cover
Gaugemaster GM633 Glass Fibre Pencil 4mm

The Gaugemaster GM633 Pencil is designed specifically for modelling use, making it an essential tool for hobbyists. This glass fibre pencil allows you to clean intricate details on your models, ensuring a polished finish. Its 4mm tip provides precision, giving you control when working on small areas. Since it is not a toy, you can confidently use it for serious modelling without concerns about safety. This product is ideal for keeping your model trains and structures in top condition.

What We Like
Ideal for detailed cleaning
Precision 4mm tip
Designed for serious modelling
Not a toy, safe for use
#TOP 8

WWS War World Scenics Gravel Glue 100ml

1c7ed9c7-5658-415e-89b4-b10693134506
White
WWS War World Scenics Gravel Glue 100ml Cover
War World Scenics Sand and Gravel Glue fixer 100ml for Model Railway Dioramas & Wargame Terrain

The WWS Gravel Glue is a versatile solution for model making and landscaping. It allows you to easily place gravel or base materials in your desired locations, ensuring they stay securely in place. The glue dries clear, providing a neat finish that won’t detract from your models. Ideal for bonding gravel, stones, and other materials on model railway landscapes or tabletop layouts, it’s perfect for creating stunning dioramas and miniature bases.

What We Like
Easy to use
Dries clear
Versatile for various projects
Available in multiple sizes
#TOP 9

Hornby TT8028 Digital Power Connecting Clip

TT8028
Black
One Size
Hornby TT8028 Digital Power Connecting Clip Cover
Hornby TT8028 Digital Power Connecting Clip - Spare Parts and Train Accessories for Hornby OO Gauge Model Railway Sets, Coupling and Modelling Tools - 1 x DCC Power Clip - Scale 1:120

The Hornby Power Clip is an essential tool for maintaining your model train track system. As a product from the UK's leading model railway brand, it guarantees authenticity and compatibility with Hornby track products. This ensures a secure fit, which is crucial for smooth and consistent train operation. The easy replacement feature allows you to quickly and conveniently swap out components, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers. Made from high-quality materials, it promises durability for long-lasting performance.

What We Like
Authentic Hornby product
Easy to replace
Durable materials
Maintains optimal track performance
#TOP 10

Märklin Trix 66602 H0 Cleaning Brush Tool

TRIX
739-66602
Gold
Märklin Trix 66602 H0 Cleaning Brush Tool Cover
Märklin Trix 66602 H0 – Cleaning Brush

The Trix 66602 Cleaning Brush is an essential tool for maintaining your model railway. It effectively cleans both locomotive wheels and track, ensuring that your trains run smoothly and look their best. You can easily lengthen the brush by connecting additional brushes, making it versatile for various cleaning tasks. Keeping your locomotives shiny and new not only enhances their appearance but also helps prevent any interference with your television or radio, providing a better overall experience.

What We Like
Effective cleaning for wheels
Versatile lengthening option
Keeps locomotives shiny
Prevents interference issues
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can I use to clean my model train?

Museums generally use an extremely mild (1 percent) solution of soap and water to clean artifacts. The same will work on models. Apply a mild soap wash with a cloth or towel that is slightly damp. Work slowly and cautiously until you find the pressure and moisture necessary to remove the dirt and only the dirt.

Editor's Notes

During our model train tools & cleaning research, we found 142 model train tools & cleaning products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 18,410 customer reviews through our big data system to write the model train tools & cleaning list. We found that most customers choose model train tools & cleaning with an average price of £6.17.

The model train tools & cleaning are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of model train tools & cleaning, including Peco, Hornby, Vallejo, Gaugemaster, WWS War World Scenics. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,165 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Edward West Avatar

Edward's family owns a retail store in Edinburgh for toys and games. He grew up taking a very active part in the family's business. Edward earned his first income from writing web content on a toy related gig for an online company. When he was 18, he took over from his father, and since then, he has been in charge and management of the store and several others around England.