How to Polish Brass Chandeliers
Do you have a brass chandelier that has lost it's luster? Here are some easy and effective ways to polish your chandelier so that it regains it's classic appeal and adds an old time charm to any home or business. Follow this article for a step by step on how to turn your chandelier into a thing of beauty.
Instructions
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Using a gentle linen or metal cleansing cloth to remove dust and grime can be a great way to restore shine to your chandelier and remove rust and other caked on impurities. This is especially effective for brass uplift finished chandeliers.
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Avoid having to completely wipe down your chandelier by gently cleaning the lightbulbs and lamp shades to give your chandelier an instant pick me up and a cleaner, brighter shine.
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Make sure that you are not using any kinds of oils on your light bulbs. Be careful not to touch the bulbs, as the body's oils weaken the seal and allow gas to escape, causing the light bulbs to burn out quicker. Handle the light bulbs with a soft cloth and be gentle, especially if the bulbs are antique.
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Use a variety of brass and metal finish cleaners. Apply with a damp rag. For the best results and shine, apply a few different treatments. Don't overdo it on the polish as you may end up stripping the brass of it's antique feel.
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After you are satisfied with the look and restoration of your chandelier, use a fan or compressed air to blow any excess dirt or residue from the fixture. Keep the chandelier looking great by it wiping down with a damp cloth or cleaner once a month.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that the chandelier is unplugged before you begin polishing.
If possible lower the chandelier down to your level so that you can work on it without a ladder. Keep the area well lit so you can see the areas that need the most attention and examine it before it is rehung.
Avoid using brass knuckles. This is especially important if your chandelier is a brass/crystal hybrid.
Try to avoid any hanging chains or open cords and make sure that all your light bulbs and areas are completely dry before reinstalling to the fixture.
Avoid using too much polish if you are opting for an antique feel, as scrubbing too hard may remove it's natural pleroma and old world feel.