Brass is defined as an alloy of zinc, copper and at times other metals and it often is used for decorative reasons as it has a desirable golden color. Like everything, brass gathers dirt and other deposits and can tarnish. To keep your brash shiny, read the following steps.
Step 1: Read up on brass and what is safe to use on it. If you know other people who have brass, ask them what they do to keep it clean.
Step 2: Sometimes brass doesn’t have to be cleaned just because it is tarnished. The tarnish can create a patina that can enhance the brass. If you decide to go ahead with the cleaning, remember that too much cleaning and using cleansers too often can damage it. Use caution with antique brass because these pieces are more vulnerable to damage.
Step 3: Make sure what you have is actually brass. You can do this by holding a magnet to the object. If there is a magnetic pull, the object either does not have brass or is simple plated with brass. Don’t use abrasive cleansers on items that are brass-plated because the covering will be thin and you will wear through it during the cleaning process, ruining the piece.
Step 4: Use soapy water to clean the brass. If it is dirty or oily, you can mix a mild detergent with warm water and dip a soft cloth into the mixture, and then wipe the piece with the cloth. If there are hard-to-reach places, use a toothbrush to clean those areas, but be gentle.
Step 5: If there is tarnish that you want to remove, you will have to do some polish work. You first will have to take off a lacquer coating if it is present. To do this, lay down newspaper to protect the surrounding area and use a paintbrush to apply paint or varnish-removing chemical, and do so with caution. When polishing the brash, first apply the polish to a cloth and then rub it into the brass. Use a clean, dry cloth to buff the brass until it shines.
Step 6: Wipe the brass dry with a soft, dry cloth. When it has its natural shine, dust it regularly.
Tips
- If you wish to reapply the lacquer coating after it has been removed, used cotton balls and a paintbrush to do so. Put on a thin layer and apply it evenly. Try to avoid dripping and let the brass dry before it is touched. Tell others not to touch the brass as well.
- If brass is heavily tarnished, and the above methods did not work, try using hot vinegar.
Items Needed
- Brass Piece
- Soft, dry cloths
- Soapy water (using mild detergent)
- Toothbrush
- Magnet
- Rubber gloves
- Newspaper
- Brass polish
- Cotton wool
- Paintbrush
- Clear lacquer for brass coating