Antique Lamp Care & Restoration
Our Methods, Materials, and Philosophy
Restoring antique lamps is a balance between cleaning, preservation, and restraint. Our goal is never to make an antique lamp look new, but rather to stabilize, revive, and protect original materials while preserving the character that makes antique lighting collectible and desirable.
The products and techniques listed below reflect what we actually use in our workshop when restoring antique lamps and lighting components.
Our Restoration Philosophy
Antique lamps are historical objects. Over-cleaning, aggressive polishing, or modern coatings can permanently remove original surfaces and reduce collector value.
Our approach focuses on:
- Preserving original patina whenever possible
- Removing oxidation and grime gently and selectively
- Avoiding harsh or irreversible methods
- Using trusted, time-tested materials
- Working slowly, primarily by hand
When in doubt, we err on the side of less intervention, not more.
Core Cleaning & Polishing Products
🟡 Parson's Household Ammonia (Diluted)
Used for:
Initial cleaning of brass and metal components to remove grease, nicotine residue, and surface grime.
How we use it:
Always diluted and applied carefully. Components are never soaked. After cleaning, surfaces are thoroughly neutralized, rinsed, and dried.
Why it works:
Diluted ammonia effectively cuts through decades of buildup without stripping metal when used correctly.
🟡 Brasso Metal Polish
Used for:
Light polishing on solid brass components where mild brightening is appropriate.
When we use it:
On parts that were originally bright brass or where heavier oxidation must be reduced before finer finishing.
Important note:
Brasso is used sparingly and intentionally, never as a blanket polish.
🟡 Simichrome Metal Polish
Used for:
Final polishing and controlled brightening of brass, bronze, and plated components.
Why we trust it:
Simichrome has long been favored by collectors and restorers for its ability to gently refine metal surfaces without excessive abrasion when applied correctly.
🟡 0000 (Four-Ought) Steel Wool
Used for:
Very light surface oxidation removal on appropriate metals.
Important:
Only ultra-fine 0000 grade steel wool is used. Never applied aggressively, and never on fragile or plated finishes without testing.
Tools & Application Materials
🟡 Drill-Mounted Polishing Wheels
Used for:
Controlled polishing of removable brass components.
How we use them:
Always at low speed and paired with light compounds. Heat buildup and loss of detail are carefully avoided.
🟡 Microfiber Cloths
Used for:
Hand polishing, residue removal, and final buffing.
Why we use them:
Microfiber allows better control and reduces the risk of scratching compared to paper products or coarse rags.
Protective Finishes & Final Treatment
🟡 Howard's Feed and Wax (Metal & Glass Finishing)
Used for:
Final protection and revitalization of both metal components and antique glass.
How we use it:
In addition to sealing cleaned brass and metal surfaces, beeswax is lightly applied to antique glass shades and components. When used sparingly and buffed properly, beeswax can dramatically revive the appearance of aged glass—enhancing depth, clarity, and richness without creating an artificial shine.
Why we use it:
- Revives dull or tired antique glass
- Enhances color, translucency, and visual depth
- Leaves a soft, natural finish
- Helps reduce haze and dryness on older glass
Important note:
Beeswax is applied lightly and always buffed by hand. It is not intended to coat or seal glass heavily, but rather to restore visual warmth and character.
🟡 Spray-Away Cleaner
Used for:
Final wipe-downs and surface preparation when appropriate.
Notes:
Used selectively and never as a substitute for proper cleaning or polishing methods.
A Note on Patina & Collector Value
Patina is not dirt — it is history.
Over-polishing can permanently remove original surfaces, soften details, and diminish collector value. Many antique lamps are more desirable with honest age and gentle wear than with overly bright finishes.
Our goal is to:
- Stabilize materials
- Improve presentation
- Preserve originality
Not to erase the past.
Transparency & Disclosure
Some products referenced on this page link to trusted retailers we personally use in our restoration process.
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