Care Guide for pre-loved Glass, Ceramics, and Wood

Thank you for giving a new life to a piece of historical art. As this is a vintage item, it may show natural signs of wear, which are part of its character and history. Please note that these items require a more gentle touch than modern mass-produced goods.

IMPORTANT

Avoid the dishwasher. Dishwasher detergents are abrasive, and hot water can damage the surface, glaze, wear off hand-painted details or other decorative elements, and fade gilded edges.

Avoid harsh scrubbing. Do not use scouring powders or rough scrubbing sponges. These can scratch the surface and ruin the item’s luster and finish.

Do not use historical items in the microwave.

Avoid sudden temperature changes when using or cleaning historical items, as this can cause micro-cracks.

When placing glass objects, please keep in mind that items made of thick glass or vases filled with water can concentrate sunlight, which may cause damage to surfaces. We recommend keeping these items away from direct and intense sunlight.

GLASS OBJECTS

Cleaning without water 
Always begin cleaning glass objects by removing dust to prevent scratches. Use a soft-bristled duster, a brush, or compressed air.

If the item has metal parts, cover them with tape before cleaning to prevent accidental scratching. Keep in mind that the strength of glass can vary, and surfaces can be easily damaged by dust and grit if they are not removed before more intensive cleaning or wiping with a static cloth.

Wet cleaning
Historical glass items can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes and scratches. We recommend washing items by hand with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, avoiding abrasive cleaners and dishwashers.

For hand cleaning, use a soft, lint-free cloth sprayed with an ammonia-free glass cleaner and gently wipe the entire surface of the object. For stubborn dirt or sticky spots, you may add a few drops of pure isopropyl alcohol to the cleaner. Please avoid alcohol-based solutions that contain other chemicals, dyes, or detergents, as these may damage the glass surface.

Drying
If you use regular tap water for cleaning, dry the object gently with a clean, lint-free, or microfiber cloth. This helps prevent scratches and the formation of limescale deposits on the glass surface.

CERAMICS AND PORCELAIN

Cleaning without water
Begin cleaning historical ceramics and porcelain by carefully removing dust from the surface to prevent particles from rubbing against the object. Use a soft-bristled duster or a fine brush. Avoid using compressed air if the item has cracks, old glue, or loose glaze flakes, as air pressure may cause damage.

If the object has metal details, cover them with protective tape before cleaning.

Be especially careful with items featuring crackle glaze, as dust can accumulate in these cracks and requires additional gentle and thorough removal.

Wet cleaning
Historical ceramics and porcelain are often porous and may react sensitively to moisture and chemicals. We recommend always testing the cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first.

Use lukewarm (not hot) distilled water and a very mild, neutral pH detergent for hand washing. Strictly avoid abrasive scrubbers, scouring sponges, and dishwashers.

For stubborn dirt or sticky spots, use a soft, lint-free cotton cloth lightly dampened with a mixture of distilled water and a small amount of neutral detergent. If necessary, for spot cleaning, use a very small amount of pure isopropyl alcohol, applying it directly to the stain with a cotton swab. Be careful that the alcohol does not come into contact with any restoration work, old glue, or overglaze decorations, as it may dissolve them. Avoid all-purpose cleaners containing fragrances or dyes, as these can be absorbed into the porous material.

Drying
With ceramics and porcelain, it is essential to avoid prolonged exposure to water to prevent moisture from being absorbed into the porous material. After cleaning, dry the object immediately using a clean, soft, lint-free, or microfiber cloth.

Do not leave standing water or limescale marks on the object. We recommend using distilled water for drying whenever possible to prevent minerals in tap water from depositing into the porous surface or glaze cracks. After cleaning, leave the object to air dry on a stable surface until you are certain that even the hidden parts of the object are completely dry.

WOOD AND PLYWOOD

Wooden or plywood items must not be cleaned in the dishwasher.

Wooden or plywood items can be safely wiped with a damp cloth or hand-washed under running water.

Avoid soaking wooden or plywood items, as this can cause the material to swell or crack.