Caring for terracotta
Unglazed clay breathes. A few habits keep it from staining or cracking.
How to clean brass the old way
Tamarind, salt and a soft cloth: no chemicals needed for a lamp that glows.
Brass darkens as it meets air. It is not damage, just a thin layer of oxidation, and many homes in Tamil Nadu clean their lamps every Friday with nothing more than what is in the kitchen.
The simplest method uses tamarind. Soak a lemon-sized ball of tamarind in a little warm water for ten minutes, then rub the pulp over the brass with your fingers or a soft cloth. The mild acid lifts the tarnish within a minute. For stubborn spots, add a pinch of salt as a gentle scrub. Lemon halves dipped in salt work in the same way.
Rinse the lamp in plain water straight away and dry it completely with a soft cotton cloth. Water left in the grooves will leave spots. For lamps with deep carved details, an old soft toothbrush helps reach the corners.
Avoid steel wool, scouring powder and chemical metal polishes. They scratch the surface and remove the hand finish the artisan worked into the brass. If you prefer a lamp that stays bright longer, rub a drop of coconut oil over it after cleaning. And if you prefer the dark, aged look, simply wipe it with a dry cloth and let it age.
