Inspired by the model invented by Bauhaus architect and designer Marcel Breuer, the chair with tubular legs (or chrome steel tubes) has never gone out of fashion since the post-war period. Now, many brands are marketing their version of the Wassily (or B3), and the seat is available in all materials, from corduroy to canework to the original leather strips. It is also possible to find this type of second-hand chair, online but also in clearance stores and other flea markets. Once purchased, it will be appropriate to give it a little freshening up, by cleaning it and taking care of its very special feet. We will explain how to proceed.
Removing rust from steel or iron chairs
On Instagram, influencer specializing in antique furniture restoration, Melissa known as @melmadefurniture, shows how to remove rust from a chair with iron or steel legs. What is the difference between these two metals? In reality, steel is made from an alloy of iron and carbon, to which chromium can be added for shine, resulting in chrome steel. Unlike iron, which is more resistant, steel is sensitive to humidity and can rust even indoors. In her very short video, Mélissa removes the rust from the legs of her chair using aluminum foil! In the comments, she explains that she kneaded it first then slightly wet it, then she rubbed all around the chair legs to remove the rust.
Another solution for removing surface rust from old chrome chairs: steel wool! In a video posted on her Tik Tok account, the designer Cyrielle (or Cy, when she signs), explains and shows how she removed the rust from her chairs with glass straw, dishwashing liquid and a lot of time! But the result is stunning and the chairs have regained their shine.
@yeahcy Cleaning chrome, my new passion. 😌👌
How to clean and shine pitted chrome?
Motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of vintage decoration, did you know that you have an enemy in common? I called pitted chrome, or the state of degradation in which chrome is oxidized and dotted with small spots forming like holes. To restore shine to your chair (or your motorized vehicle), you can use steel wool (or steel wool), but also rub with specialized products such as Miror, Belgom or another reference. Start by cleaning and scrubbing the residue with very fine steel wool (000), then buff with a cloth and the product of your choice.