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Well, you’ve finally found the perfect set of wind chimes that you’ve been looking for. You have hung them in the perfect spot in your garden or on your patio and have been enjoying their beautiful sounds. But now you should have some tips on how to care for them.

For most people, spring cleaning is a yearly regimen as they get ready for summer, perhaps the favourite season of all for wind chimes. Windows are opened and fresh air is let in as the cleaning starts indoors. But we also have to remember that there is something important outdoors that needs our attention too. Our beautiful sound makers need to be cared for as well so they can continue to bring us those wonderful relaxing sounds because even the best-made ones will weather over time.

The manner in which you care for your wind chimes will depend on what kind you have. Here are some tips.

If you have bamboo wind chimes, these should be brought indoors if you have a harsh winter or during extreme weather conditions. Cleaning is simple and any build-up of mould or dirt can be easily be removed by wiping with a damp cloth. Once spring arrives, you may want to apply a coat of varnish for further protection. Even though most bamboo wind chimes are threaded on rot-proof nylon lines, it is a very good idea to check those lines from time to time because even these may wear through over time. If you find that any of your lines are not looking as they should, it is not difficult to use a similar line and re-thread your chime. A well cared for bamboo wind chime will continue to give you pleasure for many years.

Although aluminium alloy chimes won’t rust, they do pit naturally over time when they are outdoors. If you see the tubes on your chimes pitting, then use a fine steel wool to bring back that beautiful smooth finish.

A natural ageing process of any of the wood will occur over time so you can help slow that process by using lemon oil on a clean cloth or brush on all the wooden parts.

If your chimes are powder-coated aluminium, they can simply be cleaned with soap and water and a damp rag. Chimes with any glass, stainless steel or other stone accents, you can clean using a damp cloth, but on those more stubborn spots, mild soap and water can be used. Some chimes are made with resin or have a rust finish. A damp cloth or duster can be used to wipe them clean.

The life of your wind chime can be extended by using appropriate care when you clean them and where you choose to hang them. Always be sure to hang any larger heavier chimes on something that you know will support it. When you do find the perfect spot where you would like to hang your chimes, be sure that they are not near anything that they might hit such as a wall, etc as this may cause damage to your chime. It is always a good idea to bring them in during very inclement weather.
Source by Linda Mathers