Vintage brass is one of my favorite finds. Candlesticks, trays, bookends and lamps all show up at estate sales looking dark and dull, and a little care brings them right back. Here's how I clean brass without overdoing it.
1. Make sure it's solid brass
Hold a magnet to it. Solid brass isn't magnetic. If the magnet sticks, the piece is brass-plated steel or iron, and harsh polishing can wear right through the thin brass layer.
2. Check for lacquer
Many brass pieces were coated with a clear lacquer at the factory. If the shine is even and the tarnish is only in spots where the coating has worn, it's lacquered. Don't polish lacquered brass; just wash it.
3. Start with soap and water
Warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap, a soft cloth, and an old soft toothbrush for the crevices. Often that's all it needs.
4. Try a gentle homemade paste
For light tarnish, mix lemon juice and baking soda into a paste, rub it on gently with a soft cloth, then rinse. Equal parts flour, salt and white vinegar works too.
5. Use brass polish sparingly
For heavy tarnish on solid, unlacquered brass, a commercial brass polish works fast. Follow the directions, work in small sections and stop as soon as you like the look.
6. Rinse and dry completely
Leftover polish and water spots cause new tarnish. Rinse well and buff dry with a clean, soft cloth.
7. Protect the shine
A thin coat of paste wax helps slow down future tarnish on decorative pieces.
8. Consider leaving the patina
That warm, darkened look is part of vintage brass's charm, and on true antiques collectors often prefer it. Clean off the grime, and decide how much shine you really want before you polish.
Looking for brass and other vintage treasures? Browse Vintage & One-of-a-Kind Finds or visit our Etsy shop.