How to Clean Brass Hardware on Furniture

Over time, brass can look dull and lose its shine when exposed to elements such as water and oxygen. It can cause the metal to tarnish or corrode. If you want to restore that shiny and majestic look of brass, you’ve come to the right place. The steps on how to clean brass hardware on furniture are easier than you might think.

How to Clean Brass Hardware on Furniture: 5 Methods

You do not need special tools or supplies to clean brass hardware on furniture. You can do it with these simple steps.

Method 1: Soap and Water

The first and easiest way to clean brass hardware on furniture is by using a soap and water solution. You need to fill a container with warm water and then add a few drops of your choice of soap. Use a microfiber cloth to gently scrub the surface of the brass hardware on your furniture with this solution. You can also use a toothbrush if you don’t have a microfiber cloth available.

Once you are satisfied with how clean the brass is, you can wipe it dry with a clean cloth. If it is extremely dirty or tarnished, you can let the brass soak in the soap and water solution for some time before you scrub it off.

Method 2: Catsup

This is a good trick you can use to clean brass hardware on furniture, especially on tougher cleaning jobs. The natural acid present in the catsup can help remove tarnish without causing damage to the brass. You can also use tomato paste as an alternative.

Simply apply a coat of the catsup onto the brass surface and leave it on for an hour (at least). After an hour has passed, wash it off using soapy water and a clean cloth or toothbrush. 

Method 3: Lemon and Baking Soda Polish

Another easy solution you can try for cleaning the brass hardware on furniture is with the use of baking soda and lemon. Combine a teaspoon of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon. This will result in a paste consistency. Use a soft cloth to apply the paste onto the brass. 

For heavy stains, leave it on for at least 30 minutes. Use warm water to rinse it afterwards. Do this as often as desired or until the brass is restored. 

Method 4: Flour, Salt and White Vinegar

If you have any of the above items in your pantry, then you can use it to clean your brass hardware at home. You can mix equal parts of all of these ingredients to create a DIY cleaning paste. Apply a thin layer of that paste to the brass you want cleaned and soak it for an hour before you rinse. 

Use warm water to rinse off the paste and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Method 5: Choose a tried and tested brass cleaner.

When all else fails, you can find plenty of brass cleaners in your local hardware store or online. You can use these products to restore the shine and look of your brass furniture at home. Make sure you follow the instructions on how to use it in order to achieve your desired results. 

The best thing about using brass cleaners is that some of them leave a protective coating on the surface to help preserve the shine and look of the brass item.

Preserving the Shine of Brass in Furniture

Once you have cleaned your brass furniture, make sure to dedicate time and effort to its upkeep. Proper maintenance is essential if you want to retain its beautiful shine for several years. Also, avoid touching the piece too often as the oil from your skin can contribute to its degradation and that tarnished look.