More Great Chandelier-Cleaning Advice.

During the past few weeks I've been cleaning out file drawers... file drawers that are full of old (OLD) newspaper clippings and magazines that contain photos or interviews that represent our business.  I thought, for posterity's sake, I'd periodically post them over the next year.   

Here is an excerpt of a bit of chandelier cleaning advice from Tim, co-owner at King's Chandelier, quoted from an issue of Old House Interiors (article written by John Wallen):

Tim confirms the enemy of brilliance is plain old dirt.

"Especially when a chandelier hangs near a kitchen or over a dining room talbe, for instance, it accumulates a film of grease that attracts and holds dust.  Coal dust attaches itself, especially in the holes where the pins enter. But, even in rooms with modern heat, chandeliers get dirty.  One a month, you should go over it with a feather duster.  Then, once a year, give it a good cleaning."

Tim says, however, that this is something people can do themselves -- with a few exceptions.  "When candle wax has dripped onto the crystal, it is better to disassemble the pieces and send them to us for cleaning, since the drops may have to be heated to remove the wax.  Also, very old chandelier may have copper pins -- the metal pieces holding the drops --or brittle pins, which need to be replaced.  It is best to have such fixtures cleaned professionally."

If you chandelier is sound and free of wax, disassemble it and wash the pieces in a mild liquid detergent dissolved in very hot water.  Dry them with a lint free towel.  Go over the body of the chandelier -- first with a dry cloth, then a damp one.  "the other way around produces streaks," Tim warns.  Reassembling the chandelier is one part of this operation requiring some forethought.

"Many different components make up a crystal chandelier: festoons, accent pieces, hanging crystals.  Take those off with the chandelier in place, and lay the pieces out in order, " suggest Tim.  "or, if you have eight arms, take off seven and leave one on to use as a guide.  Or, draw a diagram."

 For more great info, go to OLD HOUSE ONLINE. 

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