Trophies often sit proudly on shelves, in cabinets, or tucked away in boxes. Over time, they gather dust, fingerprints, or even tarnish, which can make them lose their shine. If you’ve pulled out a box of awards from years ago or noticed your display has dulled, you might be wondering: how do you clean an old trophy?
The good news is that with the right approach, you can restore trophies to their former sparkle. Whether they’re made of metal, glass, or plastic, careful cleaning will make them look new again.
Step 1: Work Out What the Trophy Is Made From
Not all trophies are the same. Some are metal with wooden bases, others are plastic, and some are made of glass or crystal. Knowing the material is the first step to cleaning properly.
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Metal trophies (brass, silver, or plated): prone to tarnish and fingerprints.
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Plastic trophies: lightweight and usually need only a gentle clean.
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Glass or crystal trophies: show smudges and dust easily.
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Wooden bases: can dry out or fade without proper care.
By identifying the materials, you can avoid damage and choose the right method.
Step 2: Dust Before You Polish
Start with a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to remove surface dust. For harder-to-reach areas, a soft brush (like a makeup brush or small paintbrush) works well. This prevents scratching when you move on to polishing.
Step 3: Cleaning Metal Trophies
For metal trophies, gentle cleaning is the key.
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Mix a mild solution – warm water with a drop of dishwashing liquid.
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Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and wring it out.
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Wipe the surface carefully, avoiding any engraved plates that could loosen with too much water.
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Dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots.
For tarnished areas on silver or brass, you can use a small amount of metal polish on a cloth. Rub gently in circular motions, then buff with a dry cloth.
Step 4: Cleaning Plastic Trophies
Plastic trophies are easier to manage. Simply use warm soapy water and a soft cloth to wipe them down. Avoid harsh cleaners or scrubbing pads as they can leave scratches.
If the trophy has stickers or labels that are peeling, remove them carefully and wipe the area clean.
Step 5: Cleaning Glass or Crystal Trophies
Glass awards are striking when clean but can quickly show dust or fingerprints.
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Use a glass cleaner sprayed onto a soft cloth (not directly onto the trophy).
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Wipe gently to avoid streaks.
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For crystal trophies, use a microfibre cloth for a polished finish.
This method restores clarity and shine without leaving marks.
Step 6: Caring for Wooden Bases
Many trophies sit on a wooden base. Over time, these can fade or lose their finish.
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Wipe with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust.
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Use a wood polish or a small amount of olive oil to restore colour and shine.
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Always dry thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.
Step 7: Protecting the Engraving
The engraved plate is the most personal part of any trophy. Avoid harsh cleaners on engravings, as they can rub away lettering. Instead:
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Use a cotton bud dipped in mild soapy water to clean around letters.
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Wipe gently with a dry cloth to remove residue.
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For stubborn marks, ask a trophy shop in Australia about re-engraving or replacing the plate.
Step 8: Regular Maintenance
Once your trophies are clean, a little ongoing care will keep them looking their best.
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Dust them every few weeks.
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Store them in a cabinet or covered shelf to reduce exposure to dust and humidity.
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Handle them with clean, dry hands to avoid fingerprints.
When to Visit a Trophy Shop
Some old trophies are too tarnished or damaged to restore at home. That’s when visiting a local trophy shop in Australia is worth it. Many shops offer professional cleaning, re-engraving, or even updating older designs with fresh parts. If a trophy has sentimental value, professional care ensures it lasts for years to come.
Final Thoughts
So, how do you clean an old trophy? Start by identifying the material, then gently dust, wash, and polish each part. From metal cups to wooden bases, a little care goes a long way in restoring shine. And if a trophy is beyond simple cleaning, your local trophy shop in Australia can bring it back to life with professional services.
Cleaning and maintaining your trophies isn’t just about looks — it’s about honouring the memories and achievements they represent. With the right care, those awards can continue to tell their story for generations.
