Although baskets do not require a lot of special care and cleaning, there are some simple steps to follow that will ensure your baskets last for generations to come. These tips not only apply to the baskets I make, but also to any basket you may have in your collection.
1. Avoid excess dryness and/or humidity - Too much of either can be detrimental to your basket. Excess humidity can promote molding and fungus, distortion of the basket's shape, and can attract insects. Excess dryness can cause breakage and/or cracking.
2. Keep baskets away from cooking areas, wood stoves and fireplaces to keep dirt and soot from settling on your basket.
3. Keep baskets away from any heat source or direct sunlight- Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause fading and bleaching, especially of color accents in addition to drying them out prematurely, making them brittle.
4. Cleaning your basket- Contrary to popular belief, showering or soaking your basket in water is not a good idea! This can result in swelling of fibers and can contribute to color fading/bleeding, and loss of patina (this is a valuable asset for antique collectors). Soaking could loosen the glue used in wooden handles as well.
5. Handling- For very valuable antique baskets, wear cotton gloves when handling, to avoid transferring body oils which can damage the basket over time. Always pick up baskets by supporting the bottom, even those with handles...especially if there are contents inside! Always line the basket with a cloth, paper towel, or plastic liner when serving food. Keep baskets used for food separate from those used for other purposes, such as potpourri.
6. Antique Baskets- Repairing damaged or broken areas of a basket can actually reduce its value and should only be done after careful consideration. Be especially hesitant about using any kind of glue in an attempt to fix a basket.
To Clean a Basket
Dust your baskets regularly using a feather duster, a clean and dry natural bristle brush (such as a paintbrush), or use the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris.
If you must clean the basket with water to remove food residue or stuck-on dirt, dampen a cotton cloth very slightly with cold water and blot gently. Too much rubbing may cause damage.
Be sure to allow your basket to air dry thoroughly!!!
If you do find mold on your basket, place it in a sealed plastic bag and put it in the freezer for 48 hours. Brush off any residue outdoors with a brush.
Dust your baskets regularly using a feather duster, a clean and dry natural bristle brush (such as a paintbrush), or use the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris.
If you must clean the basket with water to remove food residue or stuck-on dirt, dampen a cotton cloth very slightly with cold water and blot gently. Too much rubbing may cause damage.
Be sure to allow your basket to air dry thoroughly!!!
If you do find mold on your basket, place it in a sealed plastic bag and put it in the freezer for 48 hours. Brush off any residue outdoors with a brush.
