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Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: sweepklean on March 07, 2005, 09:47:42 PM

Title: Cleaning an Antique Teapot
Post by: sweepklean on March 07, 2005, 09:47:42 PM
Hello,

Can anyone tell me what I need to use to clean an antique teapot? It is silverplated, made by Aurora Mfg. Co. I have used some MAAS polishing creme and it seems to be working, but it is taking a long time. Also, I have no idea how to clean the feet because they have a lot of intricate details that I cannot get clean.
Thanks for any help you can offer.
Title: Cleaning an Antique Teapot
Post by: Guest on March 08, 2005, 01:45:37 AM
You're doing everything right!  I have used Wright's silver (cream) polish for 40 plus years.  It comes with a very fine sponge - and yes, it takes a while.  Go in a circular fashion, rinse, rinse sponge and continue to another area.  Regarding the feet, You want some of the dark areas to show.  Enhances the design.  The silver itself takes on a glow, called a patina.  It should not be "glossy" or mirror like.  There are products out there, liquids, that smell horrible, can't be in contact with the metal for more than a couple of seconds, and take all the character away.  Oh, and after you've finished polishing, rinsing, and etc., use a nice SOFT cloth to finish off with.  Old flannel shirts make good drying rags.  That softer silver look is sometimes called a "Butler's finish".

Keep up the good work.    Best wishes,  KB