Friday, April 4, 2008

Antique Lighting Cleaning Tips

If you are collecting antique lighting whether for fun or profit, then you need to know how to maintain it by proper cleaning. Maintenance will protect the historical items from damage and help to increase its value. usually, a vintage light that is in good condition will fetch a better price than a similar one which is not properly maintained.

In this post, you will learn how to maintain the rare lighting such as lamps, shades, candlebra and chandeliers and keep them in good condition.

Do you know the right ways to care your collectibles? When you buy any old table lamps or sconces, always check with the sellers on the proper maintenance techniques. Request for a written instruction on how to clean them. You can check on the Internet for more advice. You also need to know that some of the rare possession may require constant cleaning to keep them burnished. Others may not need any cleaning at all but they will remain in good condition.

Antique lighting come in many groups. You will have lamps, chandeliers, candlebra, sconces, astrals, argands, sinumbras, and girandoles. Each of these items require different kinds of care. Moreover, they use different material for the construction. Having this knowledge will help you to use the right cleaning method for a particular masterpiece. In addition, you will also know how to keep them properly so that their value can increase.

If the classical lighting or fixture is made of ceramic, you can clean it with lukeware or warm water and a mild soap. For those that have painted features, you can wipe them with just a damp cloth.

For brass lighting, you can mix flour, vinegar and salt together and form them into a paste. Rub the mixture gently with a soft cloth on the items. Patina is another good choice.

On the wooden areas, clean them by making a solution of water, bleach, and detergent. This will prevent the growth of mildew. If you want to get rid of sticky stuff, apply hot water and a lemon juice on it.

Some rare lighting item are made of bronze. Never use patina as white spots will form on the surface and this will bring down the value of the prized items. Instead, clean them with a damp cloth that has been soaked in water and soap.

General knowledge such as categories and materials on the antique lighting proves to be very useful. Maintenance and cleaning procedures depends on how much you know about them. You can destroy their value if you use the wrong techniques.

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