How to Restore Bamboo Wind Chimes

Remove loose dirt and dust from chimes with a vacuum or dry rag. Any grit remaining during the washing process can abrade the surface of the bamboo if rubbed in the wrong direction.

Mix the ammonia, dish soap and water in the bucket. Clean the bamboo thoroughly with a rag dampened with the mixture. Be sure to wring the rag out between dips in the solution. Do not soak the bamboo, because too much moisture can soak into the grain and allow mildew to grow.

Rinse with a sponge dampened with clean water. Again, do not allow the bamboo to become soaked.

Rub the chimes dry with a soft, clean cloth. Dry every nook and cranny, including the insides of the rods. Once the chimes are dry, place them in a sunny spot for a few hours to dry out completely. If any area of the bamboo feels cool to the touch, it still has moisture inside and requires additional drying time. It may be necessary to turn the rods every hour or so to ensure even drying.

Dust the chimes once again with a clean, soft rag. Using fine-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the surface of the bamboo, going with the grain. Use a very soft, smooth stroke, and stop as soon as the surface feels smooth. Dust again with a clean rag.

Apply a thin coat of linseed oil or furniture polish with a soft cloth, again working with the grain. Rub the oil in thoroughly with the cloth. Allow to dry in the sun.

Apply a thin coat of paste wax with a soft cloth, rubbing with the grain and wiping off excess. The paste wax will help prevent the bamboo from showing the effects of weather in the future.

Apply a thin coat of oil-based spray varnish if desired, for further protection from the elements. The varnish is easily applied from an aerosol can, but can potentially alter the tonal qualities of the chimes.