How to Clean a Brass Handle

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. And like these two metals, brass objects can tarnish and oxidise over time. Moreover, it is not always easy to clean them without risking damage. In this case, discover our advice for properly maintaining your brass handles in order to clean them well and restore their beauty of yesteryear.

Soapy water

Melt Marseille soap in a bowl filled with hot water. Then, mix everything until it has a uniform consistency. When you are going to clean your chrome or gold-plated brass handles, soak a chamois leather or clean, soft cloth in the bowl. Then, rub all the elements of the handle with the cloth, and rinse them with clean water. Finally, use another clean, dry cloth to wipe them to make them shine.

Toothpaste

Use a clean microfibre cloth or chamois leather and put a little toothpaste on it. Then, apply the latter to your brass handles and rub for a few minutes. Then, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any excess. Finish the cleaning by rinsing with clean water and wiping with a clean, dry cloth.

Cola-based fizzy drink

Put cola-based fizzy drink in a basin, let your brass handles rest there. Then, use a soft brush to scrub the surface of each object while it is immersed in the fizzy drink. Rinse each object with clean water and dry them using a clean cloth. Note that fizzy drink is a powerful antioxidant for metal objects.

Ketchup

Ketchup is not just a condiment and a suitable companion for dishes; it is also a practical and economical way to clean brass items. Put some on a clean cloth and apply over the entire surface to be cleaned. Leave it on the surface for a few minutes, then rub the surface to be treated so as to let the ketchup work deep down. Rinse with clean water and use a clean, dry cloth for drying.

White vinegar

Over time, this material oxidises and develops marks on its surface. Without tips, it will be difficult to remove old stains without risking damage to the material, particularly for a brass furniture handle and knob. To help you, here are our tips and tricks:

• Mix one litre of hot water and 50 grams of white vinegar in a basin.
• Immerse the stained handle in the solution for a few minutes.
• Gently rub the stain with a soft brush until it disappears.

To remove stubborn stains:

• Use a soft, non-abrasive sponge with coarse salt.
• Remove the object from its bath and rub the sponge on the stained area.
• Put the object back in the basin and repeat the process until the stain is removed.
• Finish with a rinse in clean water and drying with a clean cloth.

Other articles on brass door handles:

• The brass door handle: the 2022 must-have
• 15 beautiful brass handles to discover in pictures
• Interior brass door handles