How to Safely Clean Antique Items
The prospect of cleaning and restoring antique items can be daunting. For many, the idea of potential damage to items of sentimental value prevents them from taking at-home approaches to cleaning. Whether your item is recently acquired or has been in the family for decades, it’s no secret that antique furniture requires more than your run-of-the mill Riverside cleaning services. However, most upkeep does not require professional expertise and can be done at home, saving you money in terms of cleaning cost and item value.
Vintage and antique items simply require milder cleaning solutions to protect from natural deterioration. Note that all furniture should be dusted properly with a feather duster or dry cloth before cleaning to remove exterior build-up and prevent excessive abrasion.
For wooden furniture such as tables or chairs, mix oil with distilled white vinegar. If you don’t have wood oil, you can substitute with extra-virgin olive oil or warm water. Short on vinegar? You might also consider a mild dish soap substitute, such as Dawn. Dampen a cotton or microfiber cloth with the solution and begin polishing the wood in small circular motions. Follow with a dry cloth to wipe away the excess.
For antique brass, one must first determine if the item is plated or lacquered. Old brass should not be lacquered, and this finish will need to be removed before cleaning. Brass plated items requires especially gentle cleaning and should be polished as infrequently as possible with warm water and dish soap. Refrain from fully submerging the item. To remove tarnish and oxidation, juice half a lemon and stir with a teaspoon of baking soda until the mixture forms into a paste. Follow the same instructions as with wood polishing, remembering to dry thoroughly. Brass can be polished every several weeks with a light acid treatment.
As far as antique fabrics go, there are a variety of methods to use depending on the type and soil level of the material. Most fabrics do require soaking. All fabrics should be washed with nonabrasive, phosphate-free soap. Yellowed linens may be cleaned with a product like OxiClean, or alternatively with half a cup of oxygen bleach and two to three gallons of cool water. Chlorine bleach is never safe, as the chemicals will damage the fibers of the clothing or furniture. Clothing stains may be removed with use of enzyme textile cleaner, however if the stains have been set for longer than a few washes, they may not be possible to remove entirely.
If you still find yourself feeling unequipped for the cleaning and restoration of your antique items, it is best to contact a professional who can provide you with the expertise necessary to assist in bringing your furniture or apparel to mint condition. Additionally, severe damage such as lacquer peeling or blushing should be evaluated by professionals, and it is best not to attempt at-home restoration. However, these DIY hacks are perfectly suited for up-and-coming collectors determined to preserve the beauty and value …