As in the house, the decoration in the garden also needs to be cleaned from time to time. But what is the best way to clean the garden gnome?
Garden gnomes have certainly gained cult status in our gardens over the past few years. Even if they are not for everyone, they delight us with their lovable sight in the neighboring garden. Incidentally, the garden gnome is a purely German invention and was first offered to the general public more than a hundred years ago at a Leipzig trade fair.
There are different garden gnomes
Of course, the little fellows have to be cleaned regularly so that their owners can enjoy them for a long time. When it comes to care, a distinction must be made as to whether it is a traditionally manufactured terracotta garden gnome or a much cheaper and shatterproof plastic garden gnome. Garden gnomes made of plaster are also rarely offered in specialist shops, but these are not recommended as they are not weatherproof and break easily.
You must also note that garden gnomes are generally not winter-proof and must be brought to a frost-free room every year in late autumn. And exactly this time is ideal to carry out a thorough cleaning of the individual gnomes. Otherwise, you should clean before you set up the garden gnomes.
Cleaning garden gnomes properly
» Clean Glazed Terracotta Dwarf:
Garden gnomes made of fired clay require more maintenance. Still, they tend to look more natural, even when they're artistically painted (usually hand-made).
Ideal for cleaning are glazed clay gnomes, which have a burnt clay glaze all around. For cleaning, you should have a bucket of water ready, into which you add a little conventional washing-up liquid. You can then use this lye and a sponge to remove dirt and verdigris from the dwarfs. Finally, rinse again with water and let the gnomes air dry.
» Clean natural terracotta gnomes:
You should, however, soak the natural terracotta gnomes for several hours. Prepare a bucket filled with water. Enter here yetAdd a dash of vinegar essence and a little citric acid. After soaking, brush the gnomes clean with a fine brush and then place in the sun to dry.
Hint:
Meanwhile, special terracotta impregnations (e.g. at Amazon) are also available. It is best to treat the little dwarfs with such an impregnation in the spring after thorough cleaning.
» Clean plastic gnome:
The plastic dwarf is certainly much easier to care for, especially since verdigris rarely accumulates on the smooth surface and, depending on the processing, it can even be cleaned in a conventional dishwasher.
Less well-made plastic dwarfs, so-called cheap products, can be soaked in soapy water, washed with a soft cloth and then showered with a watering can. Finally, let all the gnomes air dry or dry with a cotton towel.