restoring brass hardware

Any tips on restoring brass hardware (for example) on an entry door?  I just replaced my door, but want to put the old brass plate and knob on the new door.

Figured I’d try to clean it up a bit before putting it back on….

Thanks in advance!

sirk98

in Antiques 13 years and 11 months ago

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kidbklyn | 13 years and 11 months ago

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Use WD 40 to clean the brass. A guy in a lighting repair store told me to use on a brass floor lamp. Worked liked a charm.

ParkSlopePS | 13 years and 11 months ago

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soak in salt water/ vinegar water mix

BHS | 13 years and 11 months ago

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I have some experience with this myself. My front door handle is solid brass though you’d never know because it is hiding under 50+ years of dirt, grime, and tarnish (it looks merely black with some brown or bluish areas). Regular brass/copper polish (same story with baking soda and vinegar or lemon) doesn’t make a dent but I’ve been using Twinkle (available on Amazon but impossible to fin in stores anymore) and the brass is coming through, though it will take a few sessions to get it into good shape. I use a heavy duty scrub sponge and Twinkle for something like this but would use something less abrasive for anything that might show scratches. If you care about the finish on the door, I’d recommending taking the hardware off if at all possible.

tinarina | 13 years and 11 months ago

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Baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice mixed to a paste works well–it’s cheap and nontoxic. Still need the toothbrush though!

PLGenius | 13 years and 11 months ago

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I agree with DiBS.  After cleaning, you also have the option of immediately coating the brass with a clear spray lacquer that will keep it from tarnishing in the future (unless you prefer the tarnished look).  I did this on same brass urn ornaments at the tops of my banisters and they look great + no maintenance!

sirk98 | 13 years and 11 months ago

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lol!  Didnt think it would be that easy… Have to hit the old hardware store tonight then! Thanks!

daveinbedstuy | 13 years and 11 months ago

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Brass cleaner and a toothbrush