Maintaining your Astarin Chime, Bell, Gong, Fountain, Crystal Suncatcher
Every part of a Astarin Chime is weather protected. Over time, however, those layers of protection can begin to wear. To enjoy your Astarin Chime for years to come, we suggest you hang it in an area that is not exposed to long term direct sunlight and periodically clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent. In addition, you may want to bring it indoors in the event of severe weather. Here are some simple maintenance tips to give your chime (bell, gong, etc.) the longest possible life:
Aluminum Tubes
Astarin Chimes tubes are made of aluminum that will not rust when exposed to the elements. However, over time, the aluminum may show pitting as a result of environmental factors. Please note this will not affect the beautiful tones of your chimes. If necessary, use mild soap and water (or a foaming, non-abrasive cleanser) to clean the tubes.
Wood Parts
Periodically, apply a thin layer of exterior use Danish or lemon oil with a clean cloth to the wood parts. Regular oiling will help protect the wood and retard the natural aging process.
Glass, Ceramic, Cloisonne-style, Stainless Steel and Stone Accents
Use a damp cloth to clean these parts. If necessary, mild soap and water can be used.
Resin and Rust-Finish Elements
Resin and rust-finish steel elements should be wiped clean with a duster or damp cloth.
Copper and Brass Parts
Copper and brass parts can be cleaned with cleaner designed for copper and/or brass, or it can be left to naturally age and patina.
Crystal Suncatchers and Products with Crystal Accents
Spray window cleaner on a clean, soft cloth and gently wipe crystals till they are clean and shiny.
Bamboo Chimes
All Asli Arts bamboo windchimes are made using natural and sustainable products such as bamboo and coconut shell. Each is hand-carved and hand-tuned by artisans in Bali or Vietnam. With proper care, your Asli Arts bamboo chime will typically last from 3-4 years when hung outside.
To extend the life of your chime:
Hang your chime in an area protected from direct sunlight or heavy winds. Excellent locations include under a porch overhang or in a shady tree.
Bring your chimes in during extreme weather or windstorms.
If you live in the north, bring your chimes in during the harsh winter months and store it in an unheated area, such as a shed or garage.
Occasionally wipe off your chimes with a damp cloth to remove any build-up or mold.
Every spring, provide added weather protection by applying a coat of varnish on your chime (you’ll want to wipe off the chime before doing this!)
We have taken a number of precautions to ensure our Asli Arts bamboo chimes are the highest quality bamboo chime in the marketplace. Our manufacturers produce only for us, allowing us to ensure a high standard of quality control. In addition, our manufacturers harvest their bamboo only during the best time of year and properly dry the bamboo before making the chimes, both of which reduce the risk of cracks in the bamboo. Finally, all Asli Arts chimes are inspected before they leave our U.S. warehouse.
Bamboo is sensitive to humidity and sudden temperature changes. Despite all our precautions, infrequently, cracks in bamboo occur as the bamboo expands and contracts in reaction to climate changes. Hairline cracks are not of concern; they are normal to bamboo and will not affect the sound of your chimes. What’s more, hairline cracks generally do not develop into larger cracks.
