Quick Answer
To keep your Hill City Howlers pin set looking new, clean it gently with mild soap and water, store it on a soft backing away from humidity, and handle it by the edges to avoid scratches and tarnish.
Why Enamel Pins Need Special Care
Enamel pins are durable but not indestructible. The metal base can tarnish, the enamel can scratch, and the clutch or post can bend if mishandled. Understanding these vulnerabilities helps you avoid common mistakes.
Humidity and direct sunlight are the main enemies. Moisture accelerates tarnishing, while UV rays can fade the enamel colors over time. Keeping your pins in a stable environment is key.
Trade-Off: Display vs. Storage
Displaying your pin set on a jacket or bag shows off your fandom, but it exposes the pins to daily wear, moisture, and potential scratches. Storing them protects them but hides them.
A good compromise is to rotate your pins: wear them occasionally, but keep them safely stored when not in use. This balances visibility with longevity.
Step-by-Step Pin Care Routine
- Clean with Mild Soap and Water: Mix a drop of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Dip a soft cloth or cotton swab into the solution and gently wipe the pin's surface. Avoid submerging the pin in water, as moisture can get under the enamel or into the clutch. Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads—they can scratch the enamel.
- Dry Thoroughly and Polish: After cleaning, pat the pin dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Then use a dry microfiber cloth to gently buff the surface, which helps restore shine and removes any remaining residue. Check that the pin is completely dry before storing to prevent tarnish.
- Store on a Soft Backing: Place the pins on a soft fabric surface, like a felt-lined tray or a piece of foam board, and secure them with their rubber clutches. Avoid stacking pins on top of each other, as this can cause scratches. Keep pins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
- Handle by the Edges: When picking up a pin, hold it by the edges or the back post, not the enamel face. This minimizes fingerprints and reduces the risk of dropping or scratching the pin. If you must touch the face, use a soft cloth as a barrier.
- Rotate Display and Storage: If you wear your pins, rotate them regularly. After wearing, wipe them down with a dry cloth and return them to storage. This reduces prolonged exposure to sweat and moisture. Inspect your pins periodically for loose posts or damaged clutches.
About Your Hill City Howlers Pin Set
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Hill City Howlers Wordmark 3-Piece Collector's Pin Set: This 3-piece collector's pin set features the team's wordmark design and is made for unisex use. The wordmark design means the enamel surface is detailed, so gentle cleaning and careful handling will keep the lettering crisp and the colors vibrant.
Hill City Howlers Wordmark 3-Piece Collector's Pin Set
