Can Zaphir Chimes be used outside?
Mar 05, 2021
Sure, you can hang your Zaphir outside but please be aware that the tube is made out of long-fibre celluloid board. These thin layers which have been crushed and pressed create the perfect acoustics for the crystal clear sound and the warm timbre these chimes are known for.
As most materials are natural we recommend to wax the wooden parts and give your Zaphir chime a sheltered position - on a porch or under part of a roof - so it is protected from direct rain. A simple beeswax or wood wax applied once or twice a year is enough to keep the wooden ring in good condition.
If your Zaphir got really wet during heavy rain, no worries. Just let it dry naturally at a safe place and you can enjoy the melody once again. Avoid drying it near a direct heat source such as a radiator.
Where to Hang Your Zaphir Chime
The Zaphir has a relatively large sail (windcatcher), which means it responds beautifully even to a gentle breeze. Indoors, a spot near an open window or doorway works perfectly. Outdoors, a covered terrace, porch or a position under a roof overhang is ideal - enough wind to sing, enough shelter to stay protected. Avoid fully exposed positions where the chime would be subject to strong, constant winds or driving rain. Read our full guide on the best place for your wind chime for more detailed placement tips.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Zaphir chime requires very little maintenance. Wipe the tube and rods gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. Avoid abrasive materials or chemical cleaners. The steel rods are treated and should not rust under normal conditions, but keeping the chime sheltered from prolonged moisture will ensure it stays in beautiful condition for many years.
Winter and Storage
If you live in a region with harsh winters, we recommend bringing your Zaphir indoors during the coldest months, especially if it is exposed to frost or heavy snow. Store it hanging in a dry room where it can continue to sound gently with any indoor airflow - a chime stored in a box will miss you.
Zaphir vs Koshi Outdoors
Both the Zaphir and the Koshi are made for indoor and sheltered outdoor use. The Koshi uses a bamboo veneer tube which is naturally water-resistant, while the Zaphir uses a celluloid tube that benefits from a little extra care outdoors. Both are exceptional in quality and craftsmanship. Read more about the differences between the Koshi and the Zaphir to find the right chime for your space.
Both chimes are also wonderful companions for yoga and meditation. Discover how to use them in your practice in our guide on using Koshi and Zaphir chimes for yoga and meditation. And if you are curious about the exact size and measurements of the Zaphir chime, we have measured everything for you.
Feng Shui and Placement
In Feng Shui, the placement of a wind chime is just as important as the chime itself. Hung near the entrance of your home, a chime welcomes positive energy and gently disperses stagnant Chi. Each Zaphir chime belongs to one of the five Feng Shui elements - Wood, Fire, Metal or Water - and can be placed in the corresponding Bagua area of your home to activate wealth, relationships, career or creativity. The gentle, continuous sound of the Zaphir is one of the most natural and effective tools for harmonizing the energy of a space.
