I'm never sure if I should wash an item or leave it in its original state. Glassware is never a doubt, warm soapy water and it sparkles. I love washing glassware and dishes.
Recently, I purchased a vintage suitcase. I fell in love with the style of it, it's not really square but flares at the bottom and the inside fascinated me. Although it was higher priced than I usually spend, I had a coupon, so I'll take a chance on this one. I did notice scuff marks on it, tiny nicks and someone priced it with about 6 price tags. But I thought the two toned piping and the darker matching handle was really neat and I loved the insides, so it was decided I'd purchase it.
When I got it home and inspected it further, I realized the handle is NOT a darker brown, just super filthy dirty from hands. It was so bad, I decided I could not sell it this way. So I cleaned it. While cleaning it, I realized the piping is really dirty, too. Now, what's the best way to go about cleaning this?
I went with the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. It worked like a gem! If you are not familiar with these things, they are like a sponge but as you use them, they disappear until you need a new one! Pretty cool. And I do suggest if you use them, to test them in a spot that won't be seen to make sure it's okay to use.
Not only did it clean the handle and piping, but it removed the scuff marks! I am just thrilled with how it worked out. I'm not going to show you just how bad the sponge looked by the time I was finished! Pretty gross!
All cleaned up and ready to go!
I have learned a lesson regarding plastics. I had a hard plastic container that I couldn't get the price tag off of it, I tried one of those products like Goop Off or Oops and it took the price tag off but left a horrible cloudy spot and I ended up throwing the whole thing away. Since I love acrylics and Lucite items, I had to find something that worked. Guess what? The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser works on that, too!
What about you? Do you clean things up before you sell them or leave them as you find them?
**The duck**
