How to Clean an Old Rayo Kerosene Lamp

Kerosene lamps used to be a primary means of illumination before the days of household electricity. Bradley and Hubbard Manufacturing Company in Meriden, Connecticut patented the Rayo kerosene lamp in 1894. Rayo kerosene lamp features include a round wick, central draft cylinder, nickel plated body and glass shade. If you want to make your Rayo kerosene lamp look as good as possible, use some helpful tips for cleaning this attractive antique.

Liquid dish soap
Cloths
Metal polish
Spray bottle
White vinegar
Paper towels

Instructions

- 1
  Lift the glass shade up to release it from its brackets. Lift the glass cylinder up as well and set it aside.
- 2
  Moisten a soft cloth with warm water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Use this cloth to clean the body, shade and cylinder. Rinse and reapply soap to the cloth as needed. Rinse each piece after you wash it, and dry each piece with a lint-free cloth.
- 3
  Apply a few drops of gentle metal cleaner polish (no harsh abrasive polishes) to a soft cloth. Rub the lamp's body with the polish. Allow the polish to dry for about 5 minutes. Wipe off the polish with a clean, lint-free cloth and buff to a shine.
- 4
  Spray the glass cylinder with white vinegar. Wipe off the damp cylinder with paper towels to remove any spots or blemishes. Repeat this process to finish cleaning the glass shade as well.
- 5
  Reattach the glass cylinder and shade once you are finished.

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