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I have found the simplest way to clean brass and copper is a solution of hot water, white vinegar, and table salt.

The solution is not harsh (though you might choose to wear rubber gloves, as it can have a drying effect on skin), and it is environmentally safe. And, it works like magic!

I often pick up old brass pieces at flea markets or garage sales, and I love cleaning them up to reveal their inner beauty; that deeply hidden SHINE that never really disappears, but just gets a little soiled over time! Perhaps even a little like we, ourselves; over time, we become a bit soiled from life's experiences; but if we look closely, and do a little cleaning, we can reveal our own inner beauty for all the world to see; though I would not recommend using this process for that type of cleaning. I'm not sure it would work, and it might be downright uncomfortable!

For a simple, effective, safe and inexpensive method for cleaning tarnished brass, using items and products that virtually everyone already has on hand, follow these easy instructions:

Items Needed:

Small pail or other container large enough to hold the piece to be cleaned (plastic is ok). I suggest using a container you wouldn't normally use for foodstuffs. The tarnish removal process is not without some ugliness; after all, you will be removing years of dirt!
White vinegar
Table salt
Hot tap water
Rubber gloves
Soap/steel wool pad
Clear enamel spray paint - (optional; only for non-food, non-heat use items).

Instructions:

Place the brass piece in the container
Pour in approximately 1/2 cup of white vinegar
Add 1 tablespoon of table salt
Add enough hot tap water to cover the brass piece
Let soak for 15-20 minutes

Final Clean:

Suggestion: Since the salt, vinegar and water solution can be strong on skin contact, you may want to wear rubber gloves for this part.
Remove piece from container
Using soap-pad and warm, clean tap water, gently rub the brass piece until you see the shine come through. Repeat all around the object until entire surface shines equally.
Rinse under warm, clean water.
Dry immediately with soft cloth or towel, to prevent water spotting.

If the piece you've just cleaned is purely decorative, and is not designed to be used for any foodstuffs nor to be subjected to heat, you may want to preserve the new shine by spraying the piece with a clear enamel, available at most home centers or hardware stores.

Remember to spray two or three light coats rather than one heavy coat, to prevent runs and drips.

Learn more about this author, Charlie H..
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