Antique furniture is, of course, very valuable, and in order to keep it clean, great care must be taken when maintaining a good level of cleanliness with your prized antique items. For those who are relatively new to antique ownership, here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning antiques.
Don’t Use A Polish That Contains Alcohol Or Silicone
An easy way to damage the delicate finish of cherry or walnut is to use a polish that contains either of these substances. These products are designed for modern furniture that can withstand such chemicals, so always check that any polish is free of these harmful chemicals.
Image Source: Pixabay
Do Avoid Using Cleaning Solutions That Contain Chemicals
Any solution that contains chemicals could easily damage the furniture’s delicate finish, and if you are looking for a reputable UK online antique dealer, check out loveantiques.com, who have some great advice about cleaning antiques, as well as offering quality antique items at very affordable prices.
Do Clean Wooden Antiques With Water And A Mild Soap Solution
This will not damage any delicate veneer finish, and after cleaning, polish with a soft piece of lint cloth for best results. A soft toothbrush can get into those hard to reach parts, but remember that ageing adds to the charm of any old furniture item, so don’t overdo the cleaning, especially with a very old piece.
Image Source: Pixabay
Don’t Put Your Antique Items In Direct Sunlight
This can dry out the timber, and if it is a regular thing, damage will occur. If you have curtains, make sure that wooden antique items are well shaded during the hot summer days.
Do Consult With An Expert If You Are Unsure
Rather than taking a chance, it is safer to consult with an experienced antique dealer prior to using anything that you are uncertain about, which will ensure that no damage is caused. The Internet is a great source of information, and a simple search should give you the answer you are looking for.
Don’t Use Any Products That Contain Ammonia
Ammonia will strip the delicate veneer off a wooden table, and once that happens, an expensive restoration is the only way to remedy the problem. If in doubt, consult with an experienced antique dealer, who will be able to tell you which products are safe to use and which are not.
Do Regularly Dust Your Antique Items
Dust quickly collects on any items that are not enclosed in a container, and a feather duster is ideal for this. You can always use a soft, damp cloth to remove stains, and generally keeping your antique items in good condition will help to maintain their value.
When acquiring antique items, the dealer will be able to help you with cleaning instructions, and if you ever wish to sell any of your collection, talk to an online antique dealer who will offer you a fair price for any item you wish to sell.
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