Whether you’re an avid pin collector, or new to the pin game, it’s important to know how to care for your pins so they can stand the test of time! While it’s always a good idea to find a reputable shop that makes quality pins, there are a few things you can do at home to ensure your pins stay looking brand new!

Cleaning Schedule

Just like you would clean your house or your clothes, pins need cleaning, too, to maintain their original shine, and prevent (or remove) rust. It’s important to know whether your pins are made from soft or hard enamel. We do not recommend cleaning soft enamel, but read on to see some tips for cleaning hard enamel pins!

Microfiber cloths should be your new best friends. And, if you don’t have microfiber cloths, any soft cloth and non-abrasive polishing creams should do. The key is to make sure you’re not being too rough, as this could damage the pins!

You can start by removing the pin back from the pin before polishing. When polishing, be aware of the sharp pin! Start with a small spot first, to make sure that the polishing cream you chose isn’t too harsh on the pin (you can do this by using a small cotton swab). Once all is good, you can polish the entire pin, but be sure to be gentle!

Some people have reported having success with using toothpaste to polish pins, however, if you go that route, make sure you test a small area first!

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning, storing, or displaying your pins, it’s important to remember to avoid any and all harsh chemicals. If your pins are displayed on a board or hoop or somewhere out in the open and next to objects you regularly clean with chemicals, take extra precaution to ensure that the chemicals aren’t accidentally getting on your pins.

Chemicals and solutions that can be damaging to pin enamel include household and chemical cleaners, and citrus/vinegar solutions. Also make sure that your pins aren’t stored/displayed on wood - the wood could have chemicals that could stain your pins. If you’re storing your pins on wooden shelves or furniture for any reason, simply lay them down on a piece of soft cloth. 

The Environment Matters

In order to make sure your pins don’t fade over time, avoid overexposure to light and heat. Not only can repeated exposure to light and heat fade your pins, but it can also affect the durability of your pins. 

Some pins also are prone to scratching easily, so if you have a pin collection, make sure you store them apart from one another. 

It’s easy to care for your pins when you follow a maintenance routine, and avoid certain things! If you’re careful about how you handle your pins, where you store them, and how you clean them, they’ll be looking as good as new for years to come! Do you have any tips for caring for your pins? Tell us in the comments!

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