Look after your piece

Handicraft Care Guide

Handcrafted pieces age beautifully when they are looked after. Here is how to care for brass, white metal, wood, stone dust, stone, terracotta, iron and resin pieces from Ethenic Handicrafts.

Last updated: 8 October 2026

  • Dust weeklyWith a soft, dry cloth
  • Keep it dryMoisture is the main enemy
  • Place with careSteady, away from edges
  • No harsh chemicalsThey strip natural finishes

Everyday care for every piece

  • Dust gently once a week with a soft cotton or microfibre cloth, or a soft paintbrush for carved details.
  • Keep pieces away from direct sunlight, damp walls, bathrooms and open windows during the monsoon.
  • Place idols and décor on a flat, steady surface, away from the edge of shelves.
  • Lift pieces from the base with both hands, never by thin parts such as hands, crowns or handles.
  • Avoid bleach, harsh detergents, acids and abrasive scrubbers on any finish.

How to clean brass

  1. Dust it

    Remove dust with a soft dry cloth or brush.

  2. Polish gently

    For natural darkening on plain brass, rub lightly with a mild brass cleaner, or a paste of lemon juice and salt.

  3. Rinse and dry fully

    Wipe off all cleaner with a damp cloth, then dry completely with a soft cloth.

  4. Protect the shine

    Buff with a dry cloth. Do not polish antique, oxidised or coloured finishes, which are part of the design.

Brass idols, diyas and lamps

Brass naturally darkens over time when it meets air and moisture. That is normal and can be polished away on plain brass. After pooja, let diyas cool, remove leftover oil or ghee with a soft cloth and warm water, then dry them fully before storing.

White metal and oxidised pieces

Wipe with a soft dry cloth. Avoid water, polish and cleaning pastes: they can remove the oxidised or antique finish that gives these pieces their character.

Wooden crafts

Keep wooden pieces away from water, heat and direct sunlight, which can dry or crack the wood. Dust regularly and apply a little wood polish once or twice a year to keep the grain rich. Wipe up spills immediately.

Stone dust, stone, terracotta and resin

Never soak or wash these pieces. Clean them with a dry soft brush or a barely damp cloth, and let them air-dry. They can chip or crack if they are knocked or dropped, so place them where they will not be bumped.

Iron crafts

Keep iron pieces dry to prevent rust. Wipe them with a dry cloth and, in humid rooms, rub on a drop of oil now and then.

Frequently asked questions

Why has my brass idol darkened?

Brass reacts with air and moisture and slowly develops a darker patina. It is natural. You can polish plain brass back to a shine with a mild brass cleaner or lemon and salt.

Can I wash my idol with water?

Brass and white metal can be wiped with a damp cloth and dried at once. Do not wash or soak wooden, stone dust, stone, terracotta or resin pieces.

How do I clean oil from a diya?

Let it cool, wipe away the oil with a soft cloth and warm water with a drop of mild soap, then rinse and dry it fully.

Will polishing damage an antique finish?

Yes. Antique, oxidised and coloured finishes are part of the design, so just dust them with a dry cloth.

Why does my piece look slightly different from the photo?

Every piece is handcrafted, so small variations in colour, texture and finish are natural and make each one unique.