Making Diamonds Shine at Harry Winston
The world-famous store typically relies on a professional ultrasonic cleaning machine, says Vice Chairman Peter Schneirla. Instead, you can try this homemade solution that the store also uses: In a bowl, mix two parts hot tap water to one part ammonia, then soak your diamonds for several minutes. (Schneirla warns that, for some other stones, this solution might be damaging.) While the diamond is submerged, scrub it with a soft makeup brush or a baby's toothbrush. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Repeat monthly or as needed.
Getting Crystal to Glitter at Gump's
At this high-end San Francisco store, employees fill a spray bottle with a solution of one part rubbing alcohol to three parts water. (This formula, they swear, leaves no streaks or residue.) Then they spritz the crystal and wipe it dry with a clean white cotton cloth. They advise using a cotton swab to get at crevices.
Removing Tarnish on Silver at Asprey
This posh big-city retailer uses the same stuff your mom did: Hagerty Silversmiths' Polish ($10 for a 12-ounce bottle). Using a soft cloth, spread a generous amount on your silver, wait a minute, then, using plenty of elbow grease, rub the item until the luster reappears. Use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess polish. Rinse silver if necessary-but never soak it in water for a long time, as it will tarnish.
Dusting Collectibles at Hummel
For intricate porcelain figurines, a standard feather duster won't do. The M. I. Hummel team uses a paintbrush (with bristles that are at least three inches long) to sweep grit from surface details. Before reusing the brush, wash it with hand soap and warm water, then air-dry.
Polishing Wood at Ethan Allen
Pieces in the showroom at this giant furniture retailer are kept gleaming with the company's own brand of polish (Ethan Allen Furniture Cleaner, $9.99 for ten ounces). Paula Mandeville, director of retail services, says you can use other polish too. Just be sure to use a foam pad to apply the product, then buff with a lint-free material like a cotton baby diaper or T-shirt.
Cleaning Blinds at Hunter Douglas
The company's trick: Clean vinyl shades with dryer sheets, which remove surface grit and reduce static cling. For wooden blinds, the company suggests that you vacuum with the soft-brush attachment to dust, then use Murphy's Oil Soap to spot-clean.
Hearst Communications