thisplace.com.au - Caring for Metals

Caring for Aluminium - Care depends on the product made from aluminium. See the type of product such as utensils or windows frames. Lacquers or waxes on products NOT used for food can protect aluminium against weathering and corrosion.

Caring for Brass - Unlacquered brass tarnishes when exposed to air. New pieces are usually lacquered. If lacquer wears off in spots through use, have a professional relacquer it. It can be done at home, but all old lacquer must be removed first, and the surface completely clean (no fingerprints or cleaner on it) before spraying the lacquer on evenly. It is hard to do well.

Caring for Bronze - Solid bronze often is lacquered (at the factory) to protect the finish. Lacquered bronze only needs dusting and an occasional wiping with a damp cloth. Have the lacquer replaced if it cracks or peels.

Caring for Cast Iron - Keep and store in dry conditions to avoid rust. Items stored for a long period should have paper towels put in them to absorb moisture. Season with oil or shortening.

Caring for Chrome - Do not allow grease to build up on items that are heated, as it will burn on when heated, and will be hard to remove. Do not wash such items in greasy dishwater which will leave a greasy film to burn on.

Caring for Copper - Decorative items should be kept clean and dusted. Copper is sensitive to air, and oxidises (tarnishes) faster in moist air.

Caring for Pewter - Pewter may be pitted or stained by acids and other chemicals in some foods, so wash immediately after using. Be careful not to dent or scratch it.

Caring for Porcelain Enamel - Porcelain enamel tubs made since 1964 are acid- resistant. Older ones may be dulled by acid contact, or other chemicals spilled in the tub.

Caring for Silver - Rubber severely affects silver. Rubber corrodes silver, and it can become so deeply etched that only a silversmith can repair the damage. Raised designs can be lost permanently. Avoid using storage cabinets or chests with rubber seals, rubber floor coverings, rubber bands, etc. Other enemies of silver include table salt, olives, salad dressing, eggs, vinegar and fruit juices. Serve these foods in china or glass containers. Although flowers and fruit look lovely in silver containers, the acid produced as they decay can etch the containers and cause serious damage. When using silver containers, use plastic or glass liners.

Caring for Teflon - Condition new pans by wiping with shortening before the first use. Do not use metal stirring spoons or forks. Do not cut with knives, etc, in pans. Do not use any abrasives, scouring powders, metal pads, etc. Don't overheat.

Caring for Tin - Decorative articles should be lacquered if exposed to weather. If used indoors, automobile wax will ease cleaning.

Caring for Wrought Iron - A protective coat of liquid wax will make cleaning easier and retard rusting. Do not use liquid wax on fireplace accessories because it is flammable.

Cleaning Glass Accessories - Glass flower vases, cruets, or carafes used to hold water, wine, oil or other liquids may develop stains in the bottom when allowed to set for a long time. Normal washing with soap and water may not get off all the stain. To remove these stains, try the following steps: 1. Pour vinegar (brown or white) into glass so as to be above the stain mark. Allow to stand 30 minutes to overnight, depending on intensity of the stain. Before emptying vinegar, add about 1/2 teaspoon dry uncooked rice, or 6-10 dry bean. Shake glass rapidly so hard grains can rub off loosened stain with a scouring action. Pour contents out. Rinse with water. Repeat if necessary. 2. If not all the stain is removed, pour ammonia into the glass to be above stain mark and allow to stand over night. Add rice or beans and shake. Repeat if necessary. 3. Commercial products such as 'Lime Away' can remove some stains. Read labels and follow directions exactly. You may need to add grains of rice or beans and shake to get scouring action with these products also. If you have crystal vases or carafes, do not leave flowers or food in them any longer than necessary, since chemical changes can occur which permanently stain crystal.

Source: Michigan State University