Just bought an antique that needs a little love? Before you pull out the big guns and get cleaning stop
and do some homework. Here are some tips to get you started...
1.
Certain antiques, old knives for example, are often more valuable in as found shape. Oxidation and age related changes, aka “patina”
is earned over many years and once it’s gone it takes just as long to get it back. Ultimately it is up to you to decide how you best enjoy
your antiques but it’s something to consider.
2.
It’s rare to be the only one collecting a particular antique and a Google search will often reveal entire communities who share
your interest. See what the best practices are for experienced collectors and use them as your guide. For example, many clock collectors warn against cleaning brass gears with ammonia as it may encourage stress corrosion cracking of hardened brass. They also advise handling brass with gloves to avoid dark marks from transferred skin oils appearing later. Collector communities are also a great way to learn about your antiques and possibly make contacts to track down rare items.
3.
Consider your material. Certain cleaning agents and materials will just never be friends. If in doubt research compatibility before you try it.
4.
When cleaning it is good practice to start mild and work your way up from there. A microfiber towel dampened with plain water will surprise you with what it can do. Warm water and a little Dawn can also work wonders. With a little elbow grease Dawn can remove some impressive goop and save you and your item exposure to harsher chemicals. If you have to move on to a cleaner like Simple Green, 409 or a stronger cleaning agent be sure to test in an inconspicuous spot first. It’s much easier to go slow and prevent damage than it is to fix it.
Good luck & happy collecting!
and do some homework. Here are some tips to get you started...
1.
Certain antiques, old knives for example, are often more valuable in as found shape. Oxidation and age related changes, aka “patina”
is earned over many years and once it’s gone it takes just as long to get it back. Ultimately it is up to you to decide how you best enjoy
your antiques but it’s something to consider.
2.
It’s rare to be the only one collecting a particular antique and a Google search will often reveal entire communities who share
your interest. See what the best practices are for experienced collectors and use them as your guide. For example, many clock collectors warn against cleaning brass gears with ammonia as it may encourage stress corrosion cracking of hardened brass. They also advise handling brass with gloves to avoid dark marks from transferred skin oils appearing later. Collector communities are also a great way to learn about your antiques and possibly make contacts to track down rare items.
3.
Consider your material. Certain cleaning agents and materials will just never be friends. If in doubt research compatibility before you try it.
4.
When cleaning it is good practice to start mild and work your way up from there. A microfiber towel dampened with plain water will surprise you with what it can do. Warm water and a little Dawn can also work wonders. With a little elbow grease Dawn can remove some impressive goop and save you and your item exposure to harsher chemicals. If you have to move on to a cleaner like Simple Green, 409 or a stronger cleaning agent be sure to test in an inconspicuous spot first. It’s much easier to go slow and prevent damage than it is to fix it.
Good luck & happy collecting!