As the crisp air of fall transitions into the chill of winter, maintaining the aesthetic and functionality of your clients’ interiors becomes essential—especially when it comes to drapery hardware. Changes in temperature, humidity, and air quality during these cooler months can affect a variety of materials like wood, steel, aluminum, brass, and more. Interior designers who choose Vesta Drapery Hardware know the importance of keeping these elements both beautiful and durable. Here’s a guide to caring for your drapery hardware as the weather cools.
Aluminum and Stainless Steel: Resilient but Susceptible to Dust
Aluminum and stainless steel are robust and resistant to rust, but fall and winter’s dry indoor air often results in an increased accumulation of dust and debris.
- Routine Dusting: Simply wipe down the hardware with a dry dust cloth to prevent buildup. Aluminum and stainless steel surfaces tend to gather more dust in the dry air of heated interiors, so make sure to dust regularly.
- Spot Cleaning for Stubborn Marks: In the colder months, oily fingerprints or other smudges can become more noticeable. For these, a solution of warm water and mild soap works well. For tougher stains on aluminum, use a multi-purpose cleaner like Ballistol®. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives on both materials, as they can damage the surface finish.
- Installation Tip: To protect the finish of your aluminum and stainless steel hardware, especially during colder months when oils from hands can transfer easily, wear gloves during installation or adjustments.
Brass: Preserving its Shine Through the Cold
Brass hardware brings warmth and elegance to any design, but it’s sensitive to changes in temperature and indoor heating.
- Regular Dusting: Keep brass free of dust with a soft, dry cloth. The dry winter air tends to cause more dust accumulation, which can dull the polished surface of brass if not removed regularly.
- Cleaning Tips: For deeper cleaning, use a gentle solution of warm water and mild soap. Avoid any harsh cleaners, which can damage the polished and lacquered finish. Regular maintenance helps brass retain its beautiful, warm glow even during the darker, colder months.
Wood: Protecting Against Dryness
Wood drapery hardware is especially vulnerable to fluctuations in humidity, and the dry air during fall and winter can cause wood to crack or warp if not properly cared for.
- Preventing Damage: Dust wood hardware regularly using a dry cloth to keep the surface clean. Avoid any moisture-heavy cleaning methods, as water can damage wood, especially in colder months when it naturally contracts due to low humidity.
- Moisturizing Tip: Consider using a wood-safe polish to add a layer of protection and help maintain the wood’s natural luster during dry seasons.
Wrought Iron and Steel: Durability with Care
Wrought iron and steel hardware are built for strength, but winter’s moisture and indoor heating can still affect their finish if left unattended.
- Dusting Routine: Like other metals, wrought iron and steel benefit from regular dusting. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove any buildup that can dull the finish over time.
- Protective Coating: If your wrought iron hardware is located in drafty or moisture-prone areas, consider adding a protective coating or sealant to prevent rusting.
Resin and Acrylic: Keeping Clarity
Resin and acrylic drapery hardware pieces add a modern, lightweight touch, but they require regular care to maintain their clarity and shine during the fall and winter months.
- Gentle Cleaning: Dust these materials regularly with a dry cloth. If cleaning is necessary, use a soft, damp cloth with a mild soap solution to avoid scratching or clouding the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the finish.
As the weather cools, keeping your drapery hardware looking pristine requires a bit of extra care. Seasonal maintenance can make a significant difference in preserving the beauty and durability of Vesta’s wide range of materials, from wood to stainless steel. The key to success is regular dusting, gentle cleaning methods, and protecting the hardware from the harsh effects of dry air and indoor heating.
By implementing these tips, interior designers can ensure that Vesta Drapery Hardware continues to enhance your design projects all season long, maintaining the hardware’s beauty, functionality, and lasting appeal.