Content

• Steps
• Tips
• What do you need

Wrought iron is a decorative metal that has been made or poured. The word forged literally means done. Wrought iron has been used for centuries and is widely used today for things like garden furniture, railings, shelving, and ornamental decor such as wine cabinets and candlesticks. Due to its slightly rough structure, wrought iron can become dusty or dirty. It can be cleaned with just a few materials. Follow these steps to learn how to clean your wrought iron product.

Steps

1. 1 Pour warm water into a bucket or spray bottle. If you are cleaning large items such as wrought iron furniture, a bucket of water is best. For small items, a spray bottle is enough.
2. 2 Add a mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid or detergent, to the water. If you are cleaning wrought iron that is indoors, vinegar is best. It may be too soft for large amounts of outdoor dirt collected on jewelry or furniture.
   • Good proportion of dishwashing liquid 1 tbsp. (5 ml) to 1 quart (946 ml) water. If using a cleaning agent, use 1/4 cup (59 ml) to 1/2 gallons (1892 ml) of water. For vinegar, use 1/2 cup (118 ml) to 1/2 gallons (1892 ml) of water.
3. 3 Remove all items from wrought iron, such as decorative pillows, regular pillows, or miscellaneous knick-knacks.
4. 4 If using a bucket, wet a sponge or rag with water. If you are using an aerosol spray bottle, spray the cleaning solution onto the sponge or rag until it is sufficiently damp.
5. 5 Wipe the wrought iron product in a circular motion, working over small areas, removing all dust and dirt. Moisten a sponge or rag as needed.
   • If there is rust on the wrought iron product, try cleaning it with a wire brush or coarse sandpaper.
6. 6 When you're done rinsing, pour everything out of a bucket or spray bottle. Rinse and refill with clean water.
7. 7 Rinse well with a sponge or rag to remove all cleaning solution.
8. 8 Wipe the wrought iron product again with clean water, rinsing frequently with a sponge or rag. If you wash the product outdoors, which might be easier, rinse it with water from a garden hose.
9. 9 Let the iron dry completely. Uncovered items can be left to dry in the sun. Interior items should be wiped with a clean dry cloth to remove excess moisture.

Tips

• You can protect your wrought iron items from scratches and rust by applying clear varnish. Varnish can keep painted surfaces from flaking.
• If your wrought iron products need a touch-up, you should paint them after they have been cleaned and dried.

What do you need

• Bucket or spray bottle
• Warm water
• Mild soap or vinegar
• Sponge or rag
• Clean dry cloth