How to Cleaning Brass

Brass is a stunning metal that can bring a touch of elegance and shine to your home. It’s used in everything from cookware and mirror frames to vases, candlesticks, instruments, and jewelry.

However, brass tarnishes easily, so knowing how to clean brass properly is key to maintaining its beauty.

Solid Brass or Brass-Plated?

Before cleaning, it’s important to know whether your item is solid brass or brass-plated. Here’s a simple test:

• Magnet Test: Place a magnet on the piece. If the magnet falls off, it’s solid brass. If it sticks, it’s brass-plated, and what may look like tarnish is actually rust.
  • For brass-plated items with rust, gently buff the rust with fine steel wool and consider repainting afterward.

Easy Brass Cleaning Methods

Cleaning Brass with a Microfiber Cloth

Start by buffing the brass with a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth. Sometimes a good polish with some elbow grease is all it needs to shine!

Cleaning Brass with Soapy Water Wash

For a simple clean, wash the brass in warm, soapy water. Either immerse the item (if possible) or wipe it down with a cloth. Make sure to dry thoroughly and buff to a shine afterward.

Natural Methods to Clean Brass Tarnish

Ketchup or Worcestershire Sauce to Remove Tarnish from Brass

It might sound odd, but ketchup or Worcestershire sauce can clean brass. The acidic nature of these condiments helps to remove tarnish.

Rub a small amount onto the brass with a damp cloth, then wipe it clean. Your brass will shine beautifully!

Using Lemon and Salt to Remove Tarnish

This natural method is quick and easy:

• Cut a lemon in half and coat the cut side with salt.
• Rub the salted lemon over the brass.
• Buff with a clean, dry cloth for a gleaming finish.

Using Salt, Vinegar, and Flour to Remove Tarnish

This homemade paste works wonders:

• Mix equal parts salt, vinegar, and flour into a paste.
• Apply it to the brass, let it sit for an hour, then rinse with water and buff dry.

Cream of Tartar and Lemon Juice for Removing Tarnish

For a slightly stronger cleaner:

• Mix 2 parts cream of tartar with 1 part lemon juice into a paste.
• Rub it onto the brass, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse and buff.

Yogurt

Yes, plain yogurt can clean brass! First clean the item to remove any dust. Rub it on with a cloth or your fingers, let it dry, then buff it off for a polished look.

Protecting Brass from Future Tarnish

• Mineral Oil: After cleaning, rubbing brass with mineral oil helps prevent tarnishing and reduces future cleaning efforts. Use a small amount on a clean cloth and rub it into the brass. Be careful not to overapply, as too much oil can attract dirt.
• Car Wax: Applying car wax can maintain your brass’s shine for 4-6 months. Buff the wax onto the brass and enjoy a longer-lasting finish.

Professional Lacquering

For long-term protection, you can have your brass pieces professionally lacquered. Keep in mind that when cleaning is eventually needed, the lacquer will need to be removed first.

Final Thoughts

Regularly cleaning and buffing your brass pieces with a soft cloth will keep them looking their best with minimal effort. With these easy tips, your brass will stay beautiful and bright for years to come!