How to Clean Metal Wind Chimes
Wind chimes are exposed to a variety of elements that can tarnish or discolor their veneer. Bird excrement, acid rain, water marks and dirt can all mar the chimes' shiny metal finish. Though none of these blemishes affect the way the wind chimes work or sound, they are unsightly, especially if you keep your wind chimes at the front of your property. Since metal is naturally resistant to staining, dirt and discoloration can be removed with simple methods using materials you may already have.
Wet a paper towel with water. Scrub any hard bits of dirt or bird excrement so that there is not debris on the chimes. You may need to press hard, but not hard enough to dent the metal. Dry the metal with another paper towel.
Spray WD-40 on the soft cloth. Rub the cloth over the metal, especially any remaining stains. This will remove the water and acid rain marks and any discoloration or tarnish. When marks are gone, blot remaining oil with a dry paper towel.
Pour a small amount of wax onto the other soft cloth. Rub the wax over all the metal on the chimes. Blot the excess wax with a dry paper towel. Wax will protect your chimes from further discoloration or tarnishing.
Tip
You can also use metal cleaner for your chimes -- it is available for brass, copper, pewter, aluminum and other types of metal.
Warning
Wax and WD-40 can stain clothes and furniture.
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Writer Bio
Jolene Armand has been writing since 1999. She has worked as a marketing copywriter for medical, dental and legal services companies and as a freelance medical and legal researcher. Armand is currently pursuing a dual Bachelor of Science in biology and Bachelor of Arts in English.
