Your Hastshilp piece has been handcrafted with care by skilled artisans, using high-quality natural materials. We believe in creating items designed to last and be cherished. With the right care, the beauty and integrity of your rattan and brass homewares and furniture can be maintained for years to come. 

Below are our recommended guidelines for caring for your specific Hastshilp items.

Rattan Care

Natural rattan is a beautiful, sustainable plant fibre known for its warmth, texture, and durability. As a natural material, each piece has unique characteristics and requires specific care to maintain its condition. 

Routine Care:

• Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth, a feather duster, or the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove surface dust from woven surfaces and crevices.   
• Avoid Moisture: Rattan is best kept dry. Excessive moisture can cause swelling, warping, or encourage mould growth.   

Cleaning Spills & Marks:

• Act Quickly: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining or absorption.
• Use a Damp Cloth: For light cleaning or sticky spots, use a cloth slightly dampened with clean water. Wring it out thoroughly so it's not wet. Wipe the area gently.
• Dry Thoroughly: After wiping, allow the rattan to air dry completely away from direct heat. You can use a hairdryer on a cool, low setting if needed. Never leave rattan wet.  

Environment & Placement:

• Indoor Use: Unless specifically stated otherwise, our rattan pieces are designed for indoor use.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to harsh, direct sunlight can dry out the fibres, causing them to become brittle or fade over time. Position pieces away from intense sun exposure.   
• Stable Humidity: Avoid placing rattan in overly damp environments (like bathrooms without ventilation) or directly next to heat sources (radiators, fireplaces), as extreme humidity or dryness can affect the natural fibres.  

What to Avoid:

• Soaking: Never soak or immerse rattan items in water.
• Harsh Chemicals: Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or strong detergents.  
• Scrubbing: Do not use abrasive pads or stiff brushes that could damage the surface fibres.

Brass Care

Our brass pieces are crafted from solid brass, an alloy known for its durability and warm, golden hue. Unlacquered brass (which we typically use unless stated otherwise) will naturally develop a patina over time – a gradual darkening and mellowing of the surface. This ageing process is often cherished as it adds unique character.  

Routine Care:

• Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove dust and prevent buildup.

Cleaning & Polishing:

• Fingerprints & Light Marks: Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately and thoroughly.
• Maintaining Shine (Optional): If you prefer to maintain a bright, polished look and minimize patina, you can occasionally use a high-quality, non-abrasive metal polish specifically designed for brass.
  • Always test the polish on a small, inconspicuous area first.
  • Apply sparingly according to the product instructions, using a clean, soft cloth.
  • Buff gently to a shine with another clean, soft cloth.
  • Avoid over-polishing, especially if you appreciate some natural ageing.
    
• Embracing Patina: If you enjoy the rich, deeper colour that develops over time, simply stick to regular dusting and light wiping.

What to Avoid:

• Abrasive Materials: Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or harsh scrubbing brushes, as these will scratch the brass surface.
• Harsh Chemicals: Avoid acidic cleaners (like vinegar or lemon juice, unless used knowledgeably for specific tarnish removal and immediately neutralized/rinsed/dried) or abrasive chemical cleaners not intended for brass.
• Prolonged Moisture: Do not leave brass items wet; always dry them thoroughly after cleaning.   

 

General Tips for Handcrafted Items

• Handle with Care: Lift furniture rather than dragging it. Be mindful of intricate details when moving or cleaning any handcrafted piece.
• Protect Surfaces: Use coasters under drinks and pads under rough objects to prevent scratches or water marks on furniture surfaces (both rattan and brass elements).

 

Need More Help?

Following these guidelines will help keep your Hastshilp pieces looking their best. If you have any specific questions about caring for your product that aren't covered here, please don't hesitate to contact our customer care team.

• Email: Hello@hastshilp.co.uk