How to Care for Your Medals?

Medals are not just pieces of metal or ribbons; they are symbols of achievements, hard work, and memorable moments. Whether they are sports medals, military honors, or awards for academic or professional success, taking proper care of them is essential to preserve their value and significance. Here are some tips on how to care for your precious medals.

The first step in caring for your medals is to handle them with care. Avoid touching the surface of the medal too frequently, as the oils and dirt from your hands can accumulate and cause damage over time. When picking up a medal, hold it by the edges or the attached ribbon to prevent leaving fingerprints or scratches.

Proper storage is crucial to protect your medals from damage. Consider using a display case or a box specifically designed for medal storage. Make sure the storage container is clean and dry to prevent moisture from causing rust or tarnish. You can line the box with soft fabric or use individual compartments to keep each medal separate and prevent them from rubbing against each other.

If your medals are made of metal, especially silver or copper, they are prone to tarnishing. To prevent this, you can use anti-tarnish strips or pouches. These can be placed in the storage container along with the medals to absorb moisture and harmful gases that contribute to tarnishing.

Cleaning your medals should be done with caution. For most medals, a gentle wipe with a soft, dry cloth is sufficient to remove surface dirt and dust. If there are stubborn stains, you can use a mild soap solution and a soft brush, but be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to avoid water spots.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish of the medal. Also, stay away from ultrasonic cleaners, as the vibrations can potentially loosen or damage any attachments or inscriptions.

If your medals have a ribbon, take care to keep it clean and in good condition. You can spot-clean the ribbon with a damp cloth if needed, but avoid soaking it or applying excessive force that could cause fraying or discoloration.

Exposing medals to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight can also have adverse effects. Try to store them in a room with a stable temperature and away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping.

Regular inspection of your medals is a good practice. Look for any signs of damage, such as scratches, tarnish, or loose parts. Early detection of any issues allows you to take appropriate measures to address them and prevent further deterioration.

caring for your medals is a way of showing respect for the achievements and memories they represent. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your medals remain in excellent condition for years to come, allowing you to cherish and display them with pride.