Care Guides

At The Lilac Bloom Vintage, we believe beautiful things deserve to be looked after. Here's how to care for your pieces so they stay gorgeous for generations to come.

Silverplate

Silver plate is wonderfully resilient with a little love. To keep it gleaming:

  • Hand wash only with mild dish soap and warm water — never the dishwasher
  • Dry immediately and thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spots
  • Polish with Wright's Silver Cream or a similar silver polish to restore shine
  • Store in an anti-tarnish cloth or bag to slow tarnishing between uses
  • Avoid rubber bands and plastic wrap, which can accelerate tarnish

Fine China & English Ironstone

These beautiful ceramics are more durable than they look, but still deserve gentle handling:

  • Hand wash is always preferred — dishwashers can dull gilding and glaze over time
  • Use mild soap and warm (not hot) water
  • Avoid sudden temperature changes — don't pour boiling water into a cold piece
  • Stack carefully with felt or cloth between pieces to prevent scratching
  • Display away from direct sunlight to preserve colours

Glassware

Vintage glass can be delicate — treat it with care:

  • Hand wash gently with mild soap and lukewarm water
  • Never soak for extended periods
  • Dry with a lint-free cloth to avoid water marks
  • Store upright where possible to avoid chipping rims

Wood

Wood loves moisture — just not too much of it:

  • Hand wash only with mild soap and water — never soak or put in the dishwasher
  • Dry immediately after washing
  • Re-condition periodically with a food-safe mineral oil or wood wax (like Walrus Oil) to restore lustre and protect the grain
  • Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent cracking

Linens

Vintage linens are surprisingly resilient with the right care:

  • Wash on a gentle cycle with cool water and a mild detergent
  • Avoid bleach — it weakens fibres and can yellow vintage whites over time
  • Air dry flat or on a line to preserve shape
  • Iron while slightly damp on a medium setting for a crisp finish
  • Store folded in a cool, dry place — avoid plastic bags which can trap moisture

Embroidery

These hand-stitched treasures need gentle handling:

  • Spot clean only with a damp cloth and mild soap — do not submerge
  • Allow to air dry completely before reframing or storing
  • Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading
  • Store flat or rolled (never folded) to avoid creasing the stitching

Have a question about a specific piece? Message us — we're always happy to help. Stay Blooming. 🌸