Brass hardware on furniture can lose its shine and appear dull over time, especially when exposed to water and oxygen. Tarnish and corrosion can occur, diminishing its majestic look. If you want to restore the shine of your brass hardware, follow these simple steps for cleaning.
METHOD 1: SOAP AND WATER
The easiest way to clean brass hardware on furniture is by using a soap and water solution. Fill a container with warm water and add a few drops of your preferred soap. Gently scrub the surface of the brass hardware using a microfiber cloth or, if unavailable, a toothbrush. Once clean, dry the brass with a clean cloth. For heavily soiled or tarnished hardware, let it soak in the soap and water solution before scrubbing.
METHOD 2: CATSUP
For tougher cleaning jobs, you can use catsup to clean brass hardware. The natural acid in catsup helps remove tarnish without damaging the brass. Apply a coat of catsup or tomato paste onto the brass surface and let it sit for at least an hour. Afterward, wash it off using soapy water and a cloth or toothbrush.
METHOD 3: LEMON AND BAKING SODA POLISH
Another effective solution is to use a mixture of baking soda and lemon. Combine a teaspoon of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon to create a paste. Apply the paste onto the brass using a soft cloth and leave it on for at least 30 minutes, or longer for stubborn stains. Rinse with warm water.
METHOD 4: FLOUR, SALT, AND WHITE VINEGAR
You can create a DIY cleaning paste using equal parts of flour, salt, and white vinegar. Apply a thin layer of the paste to the brass and let it soak for an hour before rinsing with warm water. Dry the brass with a clean cloth.
METHOD 5: CHOOSE A TRIED AND TESTED BRASS CLEANER
If other methods don’t yield desired results, consider using a commercially available brass cleaner. These products can be found in hardware stores or online. Follow the instructions provided with the cleaner to restore the shine of your brass furniture. Some brass cleaners also leave a protective coating to preserve the brass’s appearance.
PRESERVING THE SHINE OF BRASS IN FURNITURE
After cleaning your brass furniture, proper maintenance is essential for preserving its shine. Avoid touching the brass frequently, as the oil from your skin can contribute to tarnishing and degradation over time. Dedicate time and effort to regular upkeep to ensure the long-lasting beauty of your brass furniture.
