For music box and antique collectors, taking good care of their valuable collectibles is important. For those who have inherited a collection of wonderful heirlooms and haven't the foggiest idea on how to keep them nice, or have not been keeping up with their collection as well as they should, caring for these special items properly has wonderful benefits. It ensures that they can be passed down to loved ones or sold at their highest value.

The following are tips on caring for antiques and collectibles. In addition, online sites such as the BBC and Antiques-UK, Amica.org and mbsi.org for music box antique collectors, anteq.com., and listantiques.com also provide detailed information on caring for various antiques. Don't forget about eBay either as they are tons of antique buffs there. Be sure to check out the collectibles forum.

Tip #1: GLASS, POTTERY and PORCELAIN:

If you have these items, when you wash them, do so individually and always in a padded washing basin to prevent chipping. Use warm water - never hot or cold - and a gentle cleanser with a soft bristled brush. Do not ever put antique glass or dishes in the dishwasher! The extreme heat and harsh detergent can be harmful. Allow glasses and allow dishes to air dry.

Tip #2 USE PROPER DISPLAY AND STORAGE

If you life in a household full of little ones or just have lots of folks around in general, store and display glass and dishes in a safe place away from heavy traffic. Do not put items to display on an open shelf, or rail. Also, avoid putting them on walls if your home is subject to vibrations from nearby trains or is busy with people passing along those walls.

Tip #3 RUGS and TEXTILES:

Both rugs and textiles require care when moving, storing, or cleaning them.

When moving these items, do so slowly and carefully as antique fabrics are delicate and can easily tear or pull apart.

When you must rollup an antique rug, do so with the pile facing outwards to prevent crushing or damage. Your antique garments should be hung on sturdy hangers and covered in white cotton or rolled with acid free paper and tied closed on either end.

Rugs and textiles can be vacuumed, but only on a low setting. Always make sure you extra care when you vaccum textiles because you don't want the suction to pull fibers apart. For spills it is best to put white paper towels under the rug and above, replacing them until no more liquid comes out. Any other cleaning should be done by an expert. In addition, avoid exposure to sun or humidity.

Tip #4: ANTIQUES AND FURNITURE:

Antique and collectible furniture can be unique and special. When you dust it, use a soft, lint-free cloth. Wooden furniture should only be waxed with quality beeswax. Avoid placing furnishings in bright light or in rooms which experience great changes in temperature or humidity as this can be very damaging. Take extreme care when moving antique furniture, always lifting and never dragging.

Having a valuable collection of antiques and all manner of collectibles is a great privilege. Taking proper care of your antiques and collectibles will not only help increase its value, but also enbable them to be passed down from generation to generation.

Copyright 2006 Monique Hawkins