PBS-TV’s Graham Haley shows you how simple table salt and lemons (citric acid) can put the clean on your tarnished copper and brass pieces.
Keeping copper and brass clean and shiny can be a tricky task, but with a few simple tricks and ingredients, you can restore their beauty without using harsh chemicals. Here are some of Haley’s Hints for cleaning copper and brass:
1. Lemon and Salt: Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt all over the cut surface. Rub the lemon on the copper or brass surface, applying gentle pressure. The acid in the lemon and the abrasiveness of the salt will help remove dirt and tarnish. Rinse with water and buff with a soft cloth.
2. Vinegar and Flour: Create a paste by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and flour. Apply the paste onto the copper or brass surface, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and polish with a dry cloth.
3. Ketchup: Believe it or not, ketchup can be used to clean and shine copper and brass due to its acid content. Apply a generous amount of ketchup onto the surface and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a soft cloth or sponge, paying extra attention to any tarnished areas. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
4. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice: Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with lemon juice to form a paste. Apply the paste onto the copper or brass surface and gently rub with a soft cloth or sponge. The combination of baking soda’s mild abrasiveness and lemon juice’s acidity will help remove tarnish and grime. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth.
5. Salt, Vinegar, and Flour: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 cup of white vinegar, and enough flour to make a thick paste. Apply the paste onto the copper or brass surface and let it sit for about an hour. Rinse off the paste with water and buff with a soft cloth to reveal a shiny finish.
Remember to always test these cleaning methods on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they won’t damage the metal. Additionally, avoid using abrasive materials or scrubbing too vigorously, as this can scratch or dull the surface. With these natural cleaning methods, you can keep your copper and brass looking their best!
