Recipe for Maintaining & Preserving Fine Lighting
A chandelier is an investment and if properly preserved, will be cherished for generations.

To maintain the beauty of a chandelier, it is important that it be cared for with routine maintenance and cleaning. A professional cleaning is recommended at least once a year with upkeep practiced monthly by the homeowner.

The crystal and precious metal finishes used to fabricate fine lighting are delicate and can be easily damaged by the use of improper cleaning products and techniques.

Here is a recipe for you to follow for the tender, loving care of your fine lighting fixture between professional cleanings.

Ingredients:

• 2 Buckets
• Moderately Hot Water
• 1 Cup of White Vinegar
• A Blanket or Quilt
• Plenty of White Towels
• Lint Free Cloths

  Preparation

1. Before cleaning a fixture, be sure to turn off the power switch. This reduces the possibility of electrical shock and contact with hot light bulbs. There is usually no need to throw circuit breakers since it may be necessary to plug in auxiliary lighting to further illuminate the work area.
2. Remove all furniture in the work area immediately around and below the chandelier. Place padded quilt(s) or blanket(s) on the floor to cushion the possible fall of tools or delicate chandelier components. For this reason, work as closely to the floor as possible.

   Cleaning
   Avoid rotating the chandelier during cleaning. It must remain stationary

1. Before cleaning, check to see that the crystal or glass chandelier components are securely attached to the fixture. If not, carefully remove them and place them on a soft towel away from the work area.
2. Fill two (2) buckets with moderately hot water (Tip: differentiate the buckets so you can tell them apart.) Add one (1) cup of white vinegar per gallon of water to one of the buckets (Do not use ammonia; it will corrode the pins) This will be the "wash bucket." The other will be used as a "rinse bucket."
3. Carefully submerge each component in the wash bucket and rub vigorously. Immediately following, dip the component in the rinse bucket. Afterwards, place the component on a clean towel to dry.
4. If you are cleaning the components while they are attached to the fixture, immerse a small, lint-free cloth in the wash bucket, and use it to wipe the component parts. Be sure to rinse the cloth frequently in the rinse bucket to remove accumulated dirt.
5. Never use cleaning products on metal unless specifically recommended by a trusted source (this includes vinegar, which is an acid). Most metal
   surfaces have a protective coating of clear lacquer to preserve the original
   finish. Use of certain chemicals will wear away the coating causing the color to change. As a rule, only use warm water.
6. As each component is placed back on the fixture, wipe it down with a clean, lint-free cloth to prevent spotting.

Tips on Dust Removal

Most air-born dust can be removed by simply "feather dusting." If dust particles remain, wipe with a damp, lint-free cloth. This should keep your chandelier bright and beautiful until it’s time for your next professional cleaning