Cleaning an antique light fixture is slightly tricky--you want to remove the dust and accumulated grime from the lamp, but you don't want to eliminate the fixture's patina. The patina is the layer corrosion or oxidation that appears with age and which, to some, adds value to the antique. By employing a great deal of care, and by using non-abrasive cleaning agents, you can remove the unwanted elements marring your .
Instructions
1. Turn off and unplug the light fixture. Plug in a hair dryer and turn it on low and set it to blow cool air. Allow the hair dryer to gently blow the dust and dirt off the fixture.
2. Rub the light fixture with a soft cloth. Get in the corners and in between any carvings or designs in the metal.
3. Mix the baking soda with enough water so that it forms a paste. Be careful: you want it to be thick and not soupy.
4. Dip a toothbrush into the paste and rub it gently around the surface area of the lamp. You may need to spend extra time and attention on heavily stained or soiled areas.
5. Rinse the fixture by using a very damp cloth to wipe off all the baking soda residue. You may need to do this twice. Allow it to air dry or dab it with a soft cloth.
Tags: light fixture, antique light, antique light fixture, baking soda, hair dryer