Here are the Best Methods for How to Clean Brass
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How to Clean Brass
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Many homeowners wonder how to clean brass objects that have developed some tarnish over time. Brass is made up of copper and zinc. It’s a soft metal, making it easy to work with and inexpensive. So it’s a popular choice for a lot of interior home decor. Brass is highly corrosion resistant after it has gone through the oxidation process (meaning it turns green).
See also: The Best Methods for How to Clean Silver
The Difference Between Brass and Bronze
Though they are different metals, brass and bronze are often mixed up, and the terms are sometimes accidentally switched. Bronze is made from copper and tin, instead of copper and zinc. It is usually less malleable than brass, and it's more commonly used to create sculptures.
What Objects In My House Are Made Of Brass?
Brass is often used to make cookware, jewelry, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, musical instruments, and certain types of art.
How to Identify Your Brass Object
There are three different types of brass objects: brass-plated, lacquered brass, and regular brass. It’s important to verify which category your item falls into before you clean it, because all require different types of cleaning.
1. Brass-Plated Objects
If you purchased a brass desk lamp from Ikea or a set of brass coasters from Urban Outfitters, there’s a good chance that these items are brass-plated. Many decorative items are finished with brass plating. This keeps them affordable for homeowners while still providing that elegant brass appeal.
Here are some common household items that might be plated brass:
Lamp bases
Suspension lights
Pendant lights
Doorknobs and cabinet handles
Certain types of earrings and necklaces
Trumpets
Over-the-door hooks
Coffee tables
The magnet test is an easy way to determine whether an item is brass-plated or made from pure brass. Most brass-plated objects are made from nickel. Nickel is magnetic, while brass is not.
To figure out which metal your item is made from, hold a magnet up to the object. If the magnet sticks to the item, it’s not pure brass, and is therefore probably brass-plated.
2. Lacquered Brass Objects
Oftentimes, brass is covered with a thin, protective layer to prevent rust and corrosion from tarnishing the surface. That layer is called a lacquer. If you bought the item recently, check the manufacturer’s website. Objects that are labeled as polished, brushed, or satin brass are typically lacquered.
If the item is antique, check the pattern of tarnish. Does it seem like there is a glossy coat peeling off in certain spots on the item? Are there certain spots that are much more tarnished than others? If so, the item is probably lacquered brass.
If tarnish appears on your object in a smooth, even layer, it’s likely that it is not lacquered brass. That’s because lacquered brass is built to resist color changes and tarnish over time.
3. Real Brass Objects
Real and antique brass tends to tarnish over time. You can perform the magnet test to see if an object is real brass, as well. Simply hold a magnet to the object. If there is no pull, the object is probably real brass.
How to Clean Brass-Plated Items
Brass-plated objects are highly delicate. They should be cleaned with a gentle combination of detergent and water.
If you try to clean away the tarnish with an abrasive cleaner, you’ll probably lift the plating right off. Instead, use a gentle microfiber cloth, a mild dish soap or detergent, and warm water. Avoid all chemical cleaners.
How to Clean Brass-Lacquered Items
Don’t try to polish lacquered brass on your own. You can remove dust and dirt by wiping the item gently with warm water and a mild soap.
If the lacquer is chipped or tarnished, you are better off taking it to a professional refinisher. They will be able to remove the lacquer completely, clean the brass underneath, and re-apply the lacquered finish.
How to Clean Regular Brass
To clean regular brass, you will need to either purchase a brass polish. Wash the item thoroughly using a combination of heated water and a gentle dish soap. Once all the visible dirt is gone, use a soft cotton cloth to apply the polish to the object.
Three Do-It-Yourself Brass Polish Options
It takes more time to create a brass polish on your own, but it can be a rewarding process. You’ll save on costs and rest assured knowing each ingredient that goes into your polish.
Don’t make your own polish if you’re dealing with mechanical objects (think hinges and locks). With these objects, it’s worth the time and cost to take the item to a professional brass cleaner. If you try to DIY it, you run the risk of tampering with the lubrication of the items which can damage their functionality.
Method #1: Lemon and salt
Take half a lemon wedge, remove the seeds, and cover the wedge with a spoonful of table salt. Rub the lemon wedge over the tarnished area of the piece. Squeeze it gently to let the lemon juice drip over the object. When you’re finished, rinse the object with warm water and buff it with a soft cloth.
Method #2: Salt, white vinegar, and flour
Combine 1 tsp of salt with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Slowly stir in the flour until the blend has a pasty texture. Apply the paste to the tarnished area of your brass object.
Method #3: Ketchup
Rub a thin layer of ketchup or another tomato-based item onto your brass object. The acid from the tomato will eat away at the tarnish. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water and buff your brass object with a soft cloth.
Keeping Your Brass Clean
Brass, like several other metals, will develop a green-tinted layer of tarnish if it is left unchecked over time. This layer is called a patina, and some homeowners like the aged look that it gives off. Before you rush off to buy that brass polish, consider whether you’d rather let your brass age naturally.
If you prefer the bright, shiny look of new brass, follow the steps above for how to clean brass — and keep your object dry and dust-free to make sure it stays in great condition for years to come.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
