Many people pass down Christmas ornaments from one generation to another, which means taking care of them is an essential task. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to clean different ornaments so you can enjoy them for years to come.
Tips on Cleaning and Storing Ornaments
Take care of your Christmas tree decorations during the off-season by following the steps below.
Storage Step-By-Step Guide
- Take down the ornaments – Remove the ornaments from your tree and other display areas, then place them on a clean, flat surface.
- Clean ornaments – Use a microfibre cloth or soft-bristled brush to remove dust or dirt build-up. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners as they can damage the ornaments and void your warranty.
- Store ornaments – Place ornaments in a storage bag to keep them away from insects and dirt. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
How To Clean Antique Christmas Ornaments
Heirloom decorations need more attention than regular ones. Read below to know how to clean vintage glass Christmas ornaments.
Vintage Ornaments Cleaning Guide
- Wear protective gloves – Wear gloves to protect your hands from potential hazards when handling vintage ornaments.
- Check ornaments – Remove ornaments from their display areas, then inspect each piece for signs of damage or deterioration.
- Clean ornaments – Use a soft-bristled brush or microfibre cloth to clean antique ornaments. Do not use any type of liquid as a cleaning agent as they can damage them.
- Store ornaments – After cleaning, store the ornaments in a cool, dry place to maintain their condition during the off-season.
How To Clean Mold Off Christmas Ornaments
Christmas ornaments can get mouldy when they’re exposed to moisture during storage. Here’s how you can clean them:
Mould Removal Guide
- Wear protective gloves – Wear gloves to protect your hands from contact with mould.
- Clean ornaments – Remove loose mould from the ornament using a microfibre cloth or soft-bristled brush. Lay down a piece of paper or tissue to catch falling debris.
- Use a mild solution – For tougher mould stains, you can mix warm water and mild soap in a bowl. Dip the cloth or brush into the mixture before cleaning the ornament. Note that using any type of solution may cause permanent damage to your décor. You can skip this step if you want to keep your warranty.
- Store ornaments – Let ornaments dry before storing them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation to prevent mould regrowth.
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer other questions about cleaning Christmas ornaments below.
How To Clean Old Christmas Ornaments
Check the ornaments for any signs of damage and wear protective gloves before cleaning. Use a soft-bristled brush or microfibre cloth to remove any dust or dirt build-up from your ornament. Avoid using liquid solutions or chemicals as they can cause permanent damage. After cleaning, store ornaments in a specially made bag before placing them in a room away from direct sunlight and moisture.
How Do You Clean Brass Christmas Ornaments?
Mix warm water and mild soap in a bowl or bucket, then dip a soft cloth or brush into the mixture to clean the brass. Rinse ornaments the same way using clean water and let them dry completely before storage. Note that using any type of solution can further damage your tree décor. As an alternative, use a microfibre cloth or brush to clean brass ornaments. For extra shine, polish each piece with a brass cleaner after cleaning.
How Do You Clean Glitter Ornaments?
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose glitter, careful not to scrub too hard. You can also use scotch tape by pressing a small piece onto the glitter and then lifting it. Repeat as necessary until you remove all loose pieces. Avoid using water or any liquids as they can damage your ornaments.
How Do You Clean Mercury Glass Ornaments?
Create a solution with warm water and mild soap, then dip a microfibre cloth into the mixture to clean mercury glass ornaments. Repeat this technique when rinsing them off with just clean water. Let each piece dry completely before keeping them in storage bags until the next season.
With proper cleaning and storage techniques, your Christmas ornaments can remain beautiful for years. Check out the rest of our durable storage solutions for Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, and more décor on our website.
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