How to Clean and Maintain Your Brass: Effective and Easy Methods
Brass items can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, but over time, they tend to tarnish. Whether you have brass jewelry, cookware, or home decor, keeping them clean while preserving their beautiful finish can be a challenge. We've tested several brass cleaning methods and found five easy and effective ways to bring back your brass items' gleam using common household products.
1. Cleaning Brass with Baking Soda and Lemon
Ingredients:
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
Cleaning Time Estimation: 15 min
Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of lemon juice to form a paste. Rub the mixture all over the brass piece with a soft rag, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water. The lemon juice's acidity will prevent the brass from turning green, while the mild abrasiveness of baking soda will polish away tarnish gently.
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2. Cleaning Brass with Lemon and Salt
Ingredients:
- Salt
- Lemon juice
Cleaning Time Estimation: 15 min
Mix equal parts of table salt and lemon juice until the salt is dissolved, or coat half a lemon with salt. Rub it on the tarnished brass surface for 10 minutes until clean, then rinse with warm water. This method provides a long-lasting shine and is efficient but be careful while rubbing to avoid leaving marks.
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3. Cleaning Brass with Flour, Salt, and White Vinegar
Ingredients:
- White vinegar
- Flour
- Salt
Cleaning Time Estimation: 1h05min
Combine equal parts of flour, salt, and white vinegar to make a cleaning paste. Apply the mixture to the tarnished brass and leave it on for an hour. Scrub gently, rinse with warm water, and dry with a clean soft towel. The vinegar breaks down tarnish, the salt acts as a gentle abrasive, and the flour helps remove any excess vinegar.
4. Cleaning Brass with Ketchup or Tomato Paste
Ingredients:
- Ketchup or tomato paste
Cleaning Time Estimation: 1h05min
Apply a layer of ketchup or tomato paste to your brass and leave it on for an hour. Wash with warm water and dish soap, then let it dry. The acid in ketchup helps remove tarnish effectively.
5. Cleaning Brass with Lemon and Dish Soap
Ingredients:
- Lemon juice
- Dish soap
Cleaning Time Estimation: 35 min
Run lemon juice over the tarnished brass, let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a soft toothbrush and dish soap. Rinse well and dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or soft towel.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent scratching the brass.
- Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners as they can damage the brass surface and finish.
- Do not use these methods on lacquered/varnished brass.
- Never put brass in the dishwasher.
How Often to Clean Brass
The frequency of cleaning brass depends on its use. For items not used often, incorporate cleaning into your spring routine. For frequently used items like jewelry or flatware, clean as needed.
Preventing Brass from Tarnishing
To prevent tarnish, lacquer the brass after cleaning. If you prefer the natural patina, dry the brass thoroughly after cleaning and store it in a dry, cool environment. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on brass to prevent damage.
By following these expert-approved cleaning methods, you can keep your brass pieces looking their best, maintaining their elegance and charm for years to come.
Explore Our Brass Collection
Solid Brass Floor Drain Handcrafted of unlacquered brass, this floor drain will develop a warm patina over time. It's an elegant and durable addition to any bathroom or powder room.
Brass Towel Holder This towel holder is made of premium quality brass and features a timeless allure. It keeps your towels tidy while adding warmth and beauty to your space.
Brass Pot Rail With Hooks This unlacquered brass kitchen pot rack is both elegant and functional. With its durable construction and classic design, it’s perfect for hanging pots and adding a touch of sophistication to your kitchen decor.
