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Care Guide
Care Guide for Vintage and Antique Objects
Vintage and antique objects need a lighter approach than new household pieces. Their surfaces have changed over time, and in many cases that change forms part of their character. Gentle cleaning, limited moisture, and avoiding over-polishing are usually the safest starting points.
This guide covers the materials most often found at The Linie, including pewter, silver-plated ware, bronze, copper, brass, wood, bamboo, marble, and ceramic. If a material is unclear, or your object is not listed here, contact us before cleaning.
General guide
Always lift objects carefully and support them from underneath rather than by handles, rims, or applied details. Keep them in stable indoor conditions, away from radiators, direct sun, and strong humidity.
If an object has loose parts, active flaking, unusual powdering, or any sudden surface change, stop cleaning and seek advice before doing more.
Metal
Metal objects are often best cared for with minimal intervention. In many cases, the darker surface that develops over time is part of the material’s history and should be preserved rather than polished away. Clean gently, keep moisture limited, and dry thoroughly after any contact with water.
Pewter
Pewter is a relatively soft metal and should be handled with care. For routine cleaning, wipe with a soft dry cloth. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, then dry immediately.Older pewter often develops a soft grey surface over time. We usually recommend preserving this finish rather than polishing it back to a bright shine.
Silver-plated
Antique and vintage silver-plated objects should be cleaned gently and as little as possible. Even where the plating appears intact, it may have thinned over time through age and past polishing, so excessive cleaning can lead to further wear.
For routine care, wipe with a soft dry cloth. Over time, silver-plated ware may develop slight oxidation or small brown spots, especially where the plating has naturally thinned with age. This is common. If needed, use a soft silver polishing cloth sparingly on affected areas only, wiping in one direction without rubbing hard.
Bronze
Bronze is originally brighter in tone, usually with a warm brown-gold surface. Over time, it naturally darkens and develops patina. We usually recommend preserving this aged surface, as it forms part of the character of the object.
For routine care, dust with a soft dry cloth. If needed, wipe very lightly with a barely damp cloth, then dry at once. Avoid polishing unless there is a clear reason to remove surface tarnish, as this can disturb the patina and leave the surface uneven.
Cooper
Copper is originally brighter in tone, with a warm orange-red surface. Over time, it naturally darkens and develops patina. In most cases, we recommend preserving this aged surface rather than polishing it back to a brighter finish.
For regular care, wipe with a soft dry cloth. If needed, use mild soap with minimal water, then dry immediately. For pieces that already have a more polished appearance, clean gently and avoid over-polishing, as repeated polishing can alter the surface and reduce the character that comes with age.
Brass
Brass is originally brighter in tone, usually with a yellow-gold surface. Over time, it naturally darkens and develops patina. We generally recommend keeping this aged surface intact, as it forms part of the character of older pieces.
For routine care, dust with a soft dry cloth. If needed, wipe lightly with a damp cloth and dry straight away. Avoid metal cleaners and abrasive polishes, especially on older objects, as they can strip the surface too quickly.
Other materials
Natural materials often change more visibly over time through light, heat, moisture, and use. We usually recommend a light approach, preserving the surface as it has aged rather than trying to make it look newly finished. In most cases, gentle dusting and stable indoor conditions are the safest starting points.
Wood
Wood has its own natural grain, tone, and surface variation, which often become richer with age and use. We usually recommend preserving this natural surface rather than over-treating it.
For routine care, wipe with a soft dry cloth. Keep away from prolonged moisture, direct heat, strong sunlight, and very damp or very dry conditions. Do not soak the surface or leave water sitting on it. Avoid routine oiling unless the piece clearly requires specialist attention, as older wood is often best left with minimal intervention.
Bamboo
Bamboo has a natural warm tone and a fibrous surface that can dry, split, or distort if exposed to too much moisture or heat. We recommend preserving the aged surface and handling it with care.
For routine care, dust gently with a soft dry cloth or soft brush. If needed, wipe with a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Keep away from prolonged moisture, direct sunlight, and heat sources. Avoid soaking and harsh cleaners.
Marble
Marble has a naturally cool, dense surface with tonal variation and veining that form part of its character. Older marble may also show small marks or a softened finish over time, which we usually recommend leaving undisturbed.
For routine care, wipe with a soft cloth. If needed, use a small amount of water, then dry straight away. Avoid acidic cleaners such as vinegar, lemon, or bathroom sprays, as these can mark the surface. Do not use abrasive pads or powder cleaners.
Ceramic
Ceramic can vary from smooth glazed surfaces to more matte or textured finishes. Older pieces may show light wear, crackling, or small irregularities from age and firing, which form part of the object’s character.
For routine care, dust with a soft dry cloth. If needed, clean gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, then dry carefully with a soft cloth. Avoid sudden temperature changes, harsh scrubbing, and prolonged soaking. Handle older pieces with extra care around rims, feet, and any areas with wear or old repairs.