Prepare your work area by laying newspapers under the brass object if it's too big to move. Use Take a long look at your brass and determine what makes it dirty. It can be because of dirt or simply because it’s tarnished. Tarnished brass can be cleaned with a basic soap solution.
Wipe clean the brass surface using a few drops of cooking oil mixed with one teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap to one quart of water. Use a wet, soft cloth or sponge to wipe it clean.
You can stop at this step, if the brass returned to its old shine and luster.
For stubborn dirt or tarnished brass, you need to get rid of the lacquer on brass to clean off the tarnish. To do this, you need to apply a paint/ varnish remover. Lacquer is used to coat brass to prevent it from oxidation. As it gets old it peels letting the brass underneath tarnish.
To restore the brass’ luster, use brass polish to bring it back to its shine. Apply the polish in the direction of the brass grain using a soft, clean cloth. Get ready for some buffing till you achieve your preferred shine.
To protect your brass from oxidation, it is recommended that you re-lacquer your brass. Use a spray lacquer and coat the brass in thin coats. Apply several layers when needed.
Allow the lacquer to dry before lifting the brass or touching it.
If you want an alternative to expensive brass cleaner or polish, ketchup surprisingly works well in cleaning brass. It is its vinegar and salt solution that does the magic.
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