Brass is a popular material that is often used in a variety of hospitality and decorative items, such as bar stools, candlesticks, and kick boards. Over time, brass can become tarnished, dull, or covered in grime, which can detract from its natural beauty and shine. However, with the right cleaning methods, it is easy to restore brass to its original luster. Here is a step-by-step guide for cleaning brass.
Materials Needed:
- Warm water
- Dish soap or mild detergent
- White vinegar or lemon juice
- Baking soda
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Salt (optional)
- Flour (optional)
- Toothbrush (optional)
Step 1:
Wash the brass item with warm water and a mild detergent or dish soap. This will remove any surface dirt or grime.
Step 2:
Mix equal parts white vinegar or lemon juice with warm water. Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution and use it to scrub the brass. This will help to remove any tarnish.
Step 3:
If the tarnish is particularly stubborn, you can make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the brass and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off with a soft cloth or sponge.
Step 4:
For extra cleaning power, you can add salt to the vinegar or lemon juice solution. The salt will help to scrub away the tarnish.
Step 5:
If you prefer, you can also use a mixture of flour and vinegar or lemon juice to clean brass. The mixture should have a consistency similar to that of pancake batter. Apply it to the brass, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away with a soft cloth.
Step 6:
For small or intricate details, a toothbrush can be helpful for getting into hard-to-reach areas.
Step 7:
Once you have removed all of the tarnish, rinse the brass with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Step 8:
As a final step, we like to use brasso with a microfibre cloth to buff the surface.
With these simple steps, you can easily restore the shine to your brass items. Just remember to be gentle, as brass can scratch easily. Also, avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the brass.
Here at Welpol, we are experienced in cleaning specialist materials such as brass. Having a regular cleaner for your venue through Welpol means you don’t have to worry about the cleaning – we can handle it all for you. If you’re interested in booking a cleaner, get in touch today.