Why these finishes need gentle care
White metal idols get their look from a silver-toned surface finish, and oxidised idols are deliberately darkened in the recesses to bring out every detail. Acids and abrasives that work on brass would remove those finishes. The rule is simple: dust, do not scrub.
Weekly care in 3 steps
- Use a soft brush (a clean makeup brush works well) to lift dust from carving.
- Wipe the smooth areas with a dry microfibre or cotton cloth.
- Check the base and hidden areas for moisture, especially in the monsoon.
Removing oil, kumkum and sticky marks
If oil from a diya or kumkum lands on the idol, act the same day. Dampen a cotton cloth very lightly with water (or a drop of mild soap in water), dab the spot, then dry it immediately with a dry cloth. Do not let water sit in the carving.
Never use these
- Lemon, salt, tamarind, vinegar or ketchup.
- Brass or copper cleaning powders, silver dip and metal polish.
- Steel wool, scrubbers or hard brushes.
- Soaking in water, milk or abhishekam liquids. For abhishekam, many families use a separate brass or copper idol.
What to do if the finish is already damaged
If an oxidised idol has been polished by mistake and now looks patchy, or a white metal piece has lost its brightness in spots, do not try harsh fixes at home. Clean it gently, dry it fully and keep it as it is; many people find the softer, worn look attractive. For valuable pieces, a metal craftsperson can sometimes re-oxidise or refinish them. Going forward, keep one soft brush and one dry cloth just for these idols so no polish or lemon residue reaches them by accident.
Storing and displaying
- Keep idols away from direct diya flame and incense smoke.
- In humid months, place a silica gel sachet in closed cabinets.
- Wrap idols in soft cloth when storing them for long periods.
Shop our white metal collection, including the oxidised Ganesha on a peacock. Handcrafted pieces carry small variations in colour, finish and size; that is the mark of handwork, not a defect.
