Brass is a material that frequently features in antique furniture and decor, such as handles, fixtures, and ornaments. While brass can lose its shine over time, harsh cleaners can cause damage, making it look even worse. That’s why we always recommend using natural and gentle methods of cleaning brass, as they not only protect the brass but are also often much more affordable. Here are just a few simple methods that will help bring some life back to your antique brass, without causing further damage.
1. Lemon juice and baking soda
This method really is as simple as it sounds. Squeeze the juice of ½ a lemon into a bowl and mix in 1-2 teaspoons of baking soda (or enough to form a paste). Don’t be alarmed if the baking soda and lemon start to fizz when you add them; this is a normal reaction. Once the paste has formed, gently rub it into the brass using a soft, damp cloth until the entire piece is covered. Finally, rinse all of the remaining paste off the brass and dry thoroughly.
This method is ideal for lightly tarnished pieces and smaller brass fittings that require a gentle cleaning.
2. Vinegar, salt, and flour
Start by mixing 2 parts flour, 1 part salt and 1 part vinegar to make a paste (you can use lemon juice as an alternative if you don’t have vinegar). Then, spread the paste evenly over the brass surface, making sure all of it is coated, and leave it to sit for 1 to 2 hours. Once you have left the brass to sit, you can simply rinse the paste off and dry it completely with a soft cloth.
This method is a gentle yet powerful cleaner for moderate tarnish and is best suited for use on larger items.
3. Ketchup
Surprisingly, there is one condiment that sits in most people's fridge or cupboard that can be used as a great natural cleaner. The natural acidity in tomatoes helps to lift tarnish, making ketchup a great brass cleaner. Simply spread a thin layer of ketchup all over the brass. Then, leave it for 15 to 30 minutes. Finally, wipe off the ketchup with a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly.
This method is both efficient and convenient for the everyday homeowner and works best to maintain your brass items.
Why it’s best to clean brass naturally
You may be wondering, why not just use a cleaning agent? Commercial cleaning agents often use a range of harsh chemicals that can cause more harm than good to brass products, particularly antiques. Natural methods of cleaning help avoid harsh chemicals and thoroughly clean your items while remaining safe and preventing damage. Strong acids or abrasives can strip the protective lacquer or etch material, leaving your brass pieces at a higher risk of permanent tarnish and damage.
These methods are also more eco-friendly and cost-effective, as they often utilise ingredients commonly found in most households.
Top tip to remember: When naturally cleaning brass items, follow these great tips: test your chosen method on a small area first, and avoid soaking any brass pieces with wooden or fabric parts.
Looking after your brass furniture and decor
Choosing natural cleaning methods for brass is one of the best ways to preserve both its shine and its history. We typically think of commercial cleaning agents as the best option for cleaning within the home. While they may be more convenient and provide faster results, the damage they leave behind can be detrimental to your antiques.
