How to clean brass products

How to clean brass at home quickly and effectively: tips with video

:

Brass products can be found in almost every home. In this article we will talk about how and with what to clean brass at home quickly and effectively. Brass items have long gained popularity due to their unique properties - high strength, attractive color and luxurious shine.

Did you know that the first samovars were made of brass? This metal is still a popular material for making kitchen utensils today.

What is brass?

Brass is a metal alloy of copper and zinc, sometimes with admixtures of tin, nickel, lead and other elements. It is often confused with bronze due to the presence of copper in the composition. This component in the alloy is responsible for the characteristic golden-brown hue that is inherent in these metals.

The scope of application of this metal is incredibly wide. Brass is used in the manufacture of dishes, car parts, pipes and other household items. Due to its resistance to rust, it is in demand in the production of plumbing fixtures.

The alloy is also used in jewelry. With certain proportions of copper and zinc, maximum resemblance to gold can be achieved. As a result, jewelry made from such a metal will be significantly inferior in cost to gold, but will look no worse.

Determining the authenticity of the metal is very simple: you just need to bring a magnet to the product. Real brass will not be attracted to it. Due to this property, this metal is often used in the manufacture of compasses. Antique brass compass

Unfortunately, with improper and irregular care, the alloy can lose its original appearance, acquire plaque, blacken and oxidize. In this article we will tell you what is the best way to clean brass, and also talk about how to avoid various contaminations in the future.

When purchasing plumbing equipment, opt for items made of brass. Thanks to their properties, the products will last a very long time and can become a worthy decoration of the room.

Basic rules for caring for brass products

By following these simple recommendations, you can maintain the shine of brass items and avoid serious contamination:

1. If the product is often used at home, try to maintain constant cleanliness . Regularly wipe things with a damp cloth or rinse them under running water.
2. After washing, it is better not to leave items to dry naturally. This can cause unsightly cloudy spots to appear on the surface of the metal. Be sure to wipe the products dry with any material, preferably with a natural composition.
3. Try not to touch metal with dirty, greasy hands . Fingerprints may not be immediately noticeable, but if you do not adhere to this rule, in the future the marks may become more obvious and will be much more difficult to clean.
4. If you wear brass jewelry, we recommend storing it in a closed box and occasionally wiping it with a soft cloth such as velvet or suede. a special cloth for silver objects , which can be easily purchased at a jewelry store, is ideal for cleaning and polishing
5. , ammonia-based compounds or other aggressive agents for cleaning
6. Caring for a brass chandelier is also easy. Remove dust regularly with a clean, dry cloth. For more intense contamination, wipe the brass elements of the chandelier with soapy water. At the end of the procedure, do not forget to wipe the product dry.
7. Brass door handles are the most susceptible to stains. Street dust, dirty hands - all this negatively affects the appearance of the product. In order to avoid heavy contamination and make it easier to care for the metal, it is recommended to coat the surface of the handles with a special varnish . Please note that over time, the varnish may begin to wear off - do not allow this to happen, check regularly and, if necessary, renew the coating layer.

If you follow these rules and inspect your products regularly, you can avoid most problems. If contamination does appear, we recommend the best methods for cleaning brass.

A brass chandelier will be a wonderful element of both modern and vintage interiors. Clean your artificial sun regularly and enjoy its dazzling shine

Methods for cleaning brass products

Regardless of the scope of use of brass metal, products equally require regular maintenance. In the household departments you can purchase specialized products or use traditional methods. Whatever brass item you own: a samovar, a chandelier or jewelry, the cleaning methods that we will tell you about will be suitable for each of them.

Soap + paste

Let's start with the simplest recipe. This method is an “ambulance” for brass products. You will need:

• liquid soap;
• toothpaste;
• medium hard brush.

Fill a basin with clean, warm water and add a couple drops of soap. Soak the brass product in the resulting solution. Leave for several hours. Then take a brush, put a small amount of toothpaste on it and start brushing. Finally, rinse the item under running water and wipe dry.

To remove traces of soot on the surface of brass products, we recommend using low-abrasive sandpaper

Acid + soda

This method is ideal if your product has been oxidized. You will need:

• oxalic acid (technical grade);
• baking soda;
• brush with thick bristles.

Apply acid to the entire surface of the brass product. Leave for a few minutes. During this time, you will see a slight darkening of the metal (don't be afraid, this is a natural reaction). Now take your brush and start scrubbing the item, paying special attention to any oxide stains on the surface. Then, while continuing to clean, apply a small amount of baking soda and let it sit for a while. Upon completion of the procedure, rinse the product thoroughly under running water.

We recommend protecting your hands with rubber gloves when working with oxalic acid.

Acid + water

This method also involves the use of oxalic acid. Add 20 g of acid powder to 1 liter of water and mix thoroughly. Place brass items in the resulting solution and hold them there for a while. Then you can start cleaning the metal with a brush.

Acetone

This method will help to cope with blackness on the surface of products. You will need:

• acetone;
• a piece of cotton fabric.

Apply acetone to the cloth and begin cleaning the metal. Blackness and oxide stains respond well to acetone, and you can easily clean the product. Please note that cleaning using this method should only be carried out in well-ventilated areas.

If your favorite brass item has turned black, don't worry, it's easy to fix. Dampen a cloth or cotton pad with acetone and wipe the surface of the object

Salt + lemon

To remove particularly strong stains, the following method will suit you. It will require:

• table salt (sea salt is also suitable);
• lemon juice.

Mix 1-2 tbsp. l. salt with a little lemon juice. Apply the resulting slurry in a generous layer to the area of ​​contamination and leave for a while. Then rinse thoroughly with water. Repeat the procedure if necessary.

To clean metal from darkening, you can use citric acid. Mix 1 glass of water with 1 tbsp. l. powder. Then wipe the surface of the product with the resulting solution. If the stains are old or in hard-to-reach places, soak the item in this liquid for a while. At the end of the procedure, rinse the product thoroughly under running water. To avoid the appearance of oxide stains, it is recommended to coat brass door handles with a layer of special varnish for metal

Vinegar

This method is the most effective. Prepare the following ingredients:

• table vinegar (any percentage);
• thick cotton or linen fabric.

Bring vinegar to a boil. Now carefully dip the cloth into the liquid and begin to wipe the surface of the brass product. Be extremely careful when using this method. Despite the fact that acetic acid effectively cleans contaminants, in inexperienced hands it can easily ruin the metal surface.

Vegetable oil

This method is perfect for removing minor stains from decorative brass items (figurines, candlesticks, etc.). In addition to the cleaning effect, this recipe will help you clean brass to a shine at home. You will need:

• olive oil;
• two pieces of soft material.

Apply a small amount of oil to one piece of cloth and begin cleaning the metal. Use a second piece of cloth to remove any remaining oil while polishing the product. There is no need to rinse off the oil with water.

Decorative products made of brass are distinguished by their strength and durability. And with proper care, they will be able to delight you and your loved ones with their radiance and royal luster.

In this article we told you about how to properly care for brass products. As you can see, caring for brass is quite simple and inexpensive. We hope that our tips will help you preserve the beauty of your products for a long time.

We recommend watching videos that show the best methods for cleaning brass products:

About the author: Irina Tertychnaya

Graduated from the economics department of the Aviation University. Married, has a daughter. Loves to play musical instruments and spend time in pleasant communication. She always strives to learn something interesting and master a new craft. Loves to cook for the whole family. Life motto: “Never give up!”

Found a mistake? Select the text with the mouse and click:

Do you know that:

There are special traps to combat moths. The sticky layer with which they are covered contains female pheromones that attract males. By sticking to the trap, they are eliminated from the reproduction process, which leads to a decrease in the moth population.

The habit of using an automatic washing machine “sparingly” can lead to the appearance of an unpleasant odor in it. Washing at temperatures below 60℃ and short rinses allow fungi and bacteria from dirty clothes to remain on internal surfaces and actively multiply.

The dishwasher cleans more than just plates and cups. You can load it with plastic toys, glass lamp shades and even dirty vegetables, such as potatoes, but only without using detergents.

Fresh lemon is not only suitable for tea: clean dirt from the surface of an acrylic bath by rubbing with half a cut citrus, or quickly wash the microwave by placing a container of water and lemon slices in it for 8-10 minutes at maximum power. The softened dirt can simply be wiped off with a sponge.

If your favorite things show the first signs of gestation in the form of untidy pellets, you can get rid of them using a special machine - a shaver. It quickly and effectively shaves off clumps of fabric fibers and returns things to their proper appearance.

Stretch ceilings made of PVC film can withstand from 70 to 120 liters of water per 1 m2 of their area (depending on the size of the ceiling, the degree of its tension and the quality of the film). So you don’t have to worry about leaks from neighbors above.

Before removing various stains from clothing, you need to find out how safe the selected solvent is for the fabric itself. It is applied in a small amount to an inconspicuous area of ​​the item from the inside out for 5-10 minutes. If the material retains its structure and color, you can move on to stains.

The easiest way to remove scale and carbon deposits from the soleplate of the iron is with table salt. Pour a thick layer of salt onto the paper, heat the iron to maximum and run the iron over the salt bed several times, applying light pressure.

Threads made of gold and silver, which were used to embroider clothes in the old days, are called gimp. To obtain them, the metal wire was pulled for a long time with pliers to the required fineness. This is where the expression “to drag out the rigmarole” came from - “to do long, monotonous work” or “to delay the completion of a task.”

Source: https://hozpedia.ru/kak-pochistit-latun.html

How to clean brass at home: methods for cleaning brass from oxides, means for adding shine

Surely every person at home has things made of brass. Some have dishes, others have jewelry. Some people keep figurines or coins made from this alloy at home.

Over time, such products lose their attractive appearance and require attention. There are several ways to properly clean brass at home. To do this, it is necessary to use a special approach so that during the procedure there is no harm to the metal.

Particular attention should be paid to antique items that have survived more than one generation.

Effective ways

Before you clean brass from oxides, you need to carefully examine the item. The figurine or decoration can be made entirely of this metal or consist of an alloy. The surface of the product may also have a varnish coating. It is with these points in mind that you need to select a method for cleaning brass at home.

If a rare item becomes dirty, then experts do not recommend removing deposits from its surface, since along with the oxidation layer, the long-term patina, which makes antique items beautiful and provides them with high value, will also be removed.

Before you do the job of cleaning brass at home, you need to give the item a good wash. A fairly simple solution is prepared for this. You need to take 10 liters of water and dissolve any liquid detergent in it in an amount of 1 tsp. Next, an object is placed in this composition, in which it must remain for 30 minutes.

After this, it must be thoroughly washed with a soft brush or cloth. Then dirt, blackness, and green deposits are removed. After completing the procedure, the item must be wiped dry, and then you can proceed to the main stage of cleaning the brass item.

Oxalic acid

This caustic substance is never used in its pure form. It is present as one of the components in many products that are used to clean bathtubs. This acid is also used as an excellent solution for effectively cleaning tiles and sinks.

The liquid preparation must be applied to the contaminated item for a while. The acid must remain on the product until it acquires a dark color. After this, the item is processed using a brush, and then covered with baking soda.

When the procedure comes to an end, the item is washed.

If a brass figurine or coin has not been cleaned for a long time, then, of course, there will be a thick layer of oxide present on it. The use of a brass cleaner containing a small amount of oxalic acid in this case is not the right solution for effective treatment. It's worth using a different method.

If the item is heavily oxidized, the best option is to use a concentrated solution as a cleaning agent. It is prepared from 200 g of acid and 10 liters of water.

During a chemical reaction that occurs on an object that is placed in such a solution, the surface darkens. Then it must be kept under running water and then wiped dry.

It should be taken into account that oxalic acid is a rather caustic solution, so when working with it you need to think about protective equipment:

Their use will ensure safe processing of products. Upon completion of the procedure, things will be clean, and there will be no risk to health.

Acetone and salt

You can also use acetone to clean brass products at home. By using it, the owner of the item can quickly clean the outside of it from oxides formed on the surface. Exposure to acetone causes the item to acquire a beautiful shine and become more aesthetically attractive.

Cleaning a brass product with acetone is not a difficult task. You need to take a cotton swab and moisten it with solvent. Next, you should wipe the contaminated product with it. The procedure should be carried out until the plaque is completely removed. If after the completed manipulations no visible result is observed, then in this case preliminary soaking is performed.

For this procedure, you need to prepare an aqueous solution based on vinegar and salt. The product should be brought to a boil. In order to increase the efficiency of processing a brass item, you should boil it for 3-4 hours. When the surface of the product darkens during cleaning, this should be considered normal. It will gradually go away during soaking.

Before you start removing oxidation from an item using acetone, you need to know that you should not use it to clean items that have a varnished layer on the surface. The use of such a substance can lead to such an unpleasant moment as complete dissolution of the varnish. This may require work to restore the coating.

Salt is also an excellent way to restore the former beauty and incredible shine of brass items. A remedy that will help achieve this is prepared from it and a small amount of lemon juice. In addition, a mixture consisting of 0.5 liters of buttermilk and 1 tbsp can be used. l. salt. The use of this method provides an opportunity to eliminate serious contaminants that have arisen on the surface of brass items.

To clean brass from oxidation, you need to take fine salt, which will be required in the amount of 1 tbsp. l. with the addition of low-fat cream. This paste should be applied to problem areas and the mixture should be left for an hour.

Then you can start wiping. Upon completion of the procedure, the item must be thoroughly rinsed under water and then wiped dry.

Before cleaning, you need to make sure that the salt has completely dissolved and will not cause any harm to the product being treated.

Toothpaste

You can effectively clean brass products by using toothpaste. To remove contaminants, the item to be cleaned is first immersed in a soap solution and washed. It allows you to remove and soften massive deposits.

After this, apply a small layer of toothpaste to the problem area. The surface is cleaned using a regular napkin.

You should only use a toothbrush if the stained area is located in a hard-to-reach place.

Sandpaper

To clean oxidation from brass, you can use fine-grit sandpaper. In order to remove deposits on the product and prevent its damage, surface treatment must be carried out using careful movements. A chemical method can additionally be used to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Soap solution

This product is mainly used for soaking dirty items. If the brass item is slightly oxidized, then in this case such a procedure will be sufficient to give the item an attractive appearance.

The process of preparing a cleaning product begins with dissolving laundry soap in the form of shavings in a container with warm water. After this, the composition must be foamed. Next, brass objects are placed in it. They should be kept for several minutes until the product cools down. Then the solution should be drained and a soft bristle brush should be used to clean things. Processing of products with such a tool must be carried out under running water.

Specialized means

Any person who needs to clean a brass item can purchase such preparations in various stores. They contain a concentrated acid solution. These agents are called oxide converters.

They are quite effective when processing items that have areas of heavy contamination. The procedure should be carried out in full compliance with the instructions for the drug.

When the process has come to an end, it is imperative to thoroughly rinse the figurine or decoration in order to wash off any remaining solution.

Such preparations remove dirt well and also provide a number of additional effects:

• do not allow the surface of the brass product to oxidize for a long time;
• keep things beautifully shiny.

When using them, it is extremely important to follow the instructions for use. In this case, fighting deposits on your favorite brass items will become a simple task for the owner.

Cleaning Tips

Before you start cleaning a brass product from contaminants at home, it would be a good idea to learn about the basic rules for carrying out this procedure.

If your item has a varnish or brass coating, then you should not remove dirt from its surface using preparations containing aggressive substances.

To combat deposits, simply wipe with a cloth or a cotton swab dipped in a regular soap solution. If there is a large layer of contamination on the product, then cleaning compounds are used.

It is necessary to choose products that do not contain abrasive inclusions. If you do not want to purchase store-bought drugs, then an effective composition can be prepared at home. Before you begin cleaning, you should test the homemade product on a small, inconspicuous area of ​​your product. A brush with soft bristles is used as a tool to remove plaque on a brass product.

The following acids provide a quick effect when cleaning objects made of this alloy:

• salt;
• lemon;
• vinegar

However, if used incorrectly, they can cause damage to the surface of the product. It is also necessary to remember about safety measures when using these substances hazardous to human health.

Removing varnish

Many products made from brass have a varnish coating. Thanks to it, oxidation of the surface of the thing is eliminated, and it also retains its original appearance.

If for some reason there is a violation of this layer, then the process of metal oxidation begins. In this case, a new coat of varnish will be required. The varnish protection of an item can disappear if you wash it under hot water.

This method of removing varnish is the most gentle on brass products.

In addition, you can use boiling the item. In this case, the item is placed in an aluminum alloy container for 3 minutes and boiled in water for 3 minutes. You can also purchase special compounds in stores that can be used to easily remove varnish from your favorite item.

Before using such products to clean brass products, you must carefully read the instructions for use. When the varnish layer is finally removed, you will need to carry out a surface cleaning procedure using one of the listed methods.

Removing contaminants from the surface of brass products is a fairly simple task that can be done at home. In order to get the desired result without causing damage to the item, you should know the rules for cleaning things made from such material, and also use only suitable compositions and home remedies.

By adhering to this approach, after the procedure the owner can return his favorite item to beauty and incredible shine, which will constantly please the eye.

Source: https://nashdom.life/otbelka/chem-chistit-latun-v-domashnix-usloviyax

How and with what to clean brass at home

The relevance of the question of how to clean brass using available products at home is largely explained by the popularity of this material, which is an alloy of copper and zinc. Brass has unique characteristics, the most significant of which are low specific gravity, high ductility, durability and attractive appearance.

Brass samovar before and after cleaning

Available Cleansers

Before asking yourself the question of how to clean brass, you need to find out for sure that the item whose appearance you are going to return to its original condition is made of this particular material. The simplest option for such a test is to use a magnet, which should not be attracted to the surface of the product if it is made of brass. Once you have determined that you have brass in front of you, you can clean it using one of the following products.

1. Ethanedioic acid (better known as oxalic acid) can effectively clean a brass product not only from serious contaminants, but also from oxides. It is absolutely not necessary to use it in its pure form: it is included in many kitchen detergents, you just have to carefully study the labels. Having found a product containing oxalic acid, you need to apply it to the surface of the object that needs to be cleaned and leave for a while. Under the influence of oxalic acid, brass may begin to darken - do not be alarmed. After some exposure, the product must be rinsed under running water, removing plaque from its surface with a brush. To achieve a better cleaning effect, the washed brass item can be covered with baking soda, soaked in it for several minutes and rinsed again with water.
2. If using a kitchen detergent does not achieve the desired cleaning effect, you can independently prepare a cleaning solution consisting of 10 liters of water and 200 ml of oxalic acid. This solution is best prepared in a plastic container. The brass item that needs to be cleaned must be kept in it for some time, and after removal, rinse thoroughly under running water. It should be borne in mind that when working with such a solution it is necessary to use protective equipment - gloves and a respirator.
3. You can clean brass with regular acetone: treat the contaminated surface with a cotton swab soaked in acetone.
4. At home, you can clean brass using a more radical method. It involves using a solution consisting of water, ordinary salt and acetic acid. The pre-prepared solution must be heated in a stainless steel container until it boils and the product to be cleaned must be placed in it, which must be kept in the boiling liquid for 3-4 hours. Only in this case can you count on the fact that the brass will be cleaned of both serious contaminants and oxides. Naturally, after removing the product from the solution, it must be thoroughly rinsed under running water and allowed to dry on a soft cloth.
5. Another way to clean items made of brass, which is easy to use at home, is to use special products based on acid solutions. The most famous of them are “Metalin” and “Delu”. Formic and nitric acids, a solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia are also suitable for these purposes.
6. You can clean even the most heavily soiled brass products at home using table salt mixed with a small amount of lemon juice.
7. Hot vinegar is an effective way to remove dark stains from brass. When using such a product, you should be prepared for the fact that your home workshop or apartment will be saturated with the pungent odor of acetic acid.
8. If you need to clean a brass item that is heavily smoked, you can do this with fine sandpaper.
9. Another remedy to restore the former shine of brass is a mixture consisting of 500 ml of buttermilk and a tablespoon of table salt.

Manufacturers of household chemicals offer many special products for cleaning brass and other metals

It is much easier to clean brass objects whose surface is coated with a special protective varnish. This is explained by the fact that the varnish, while protecting brass from contact with oxygen, protects it from the formation of an oxide film, which is the most difficult to get rid of. The surface of lacquered brass products has a bright shine, which is lost as a result of its contamination.

If you are considering cleaning brass with products such as citric acid, hydrochloric acid and acetic acid, keep in mind that this is quite a dangerous task, so proceed with extreme caution and follow the required safety precautions.

It is convenient to apply cleaning agents to large brass products with a paint brush

Some tips for cleaning brass items

The simplest and most commonly available means to clean brass at home is regular toothpaste, which can be used as an abrasive.

Before you start using the paste, the product must be thoroughly washed in a soapy solution, which will remove accumulated fat and other contaminants. Then paste is applied to it and thoroughly rubbed with an old toothbrush.

Naturally, after completing this procedure, the cleaned item must be rinsed under running water and then allowed to dry.

Available products that can effectively clean brass products include vinegar and wheat flour. From them, mixing them in equal parts, prepare “vinegar dough”. The mass thus obtained is applied to the surface of the product to be cleaned and left until completely dry.

The vinegar used in this mixture actively reacts with the oxide film, and the flour absorbs all decay products of the contamination. After complete drying, the “vinegar paste” must be wiped off with a soft, dry cloth.

Using this method, you can clean products made from pure copper to a shine.

Removing old varnish from brass and applying a new protective coating to it

If none of the methods described above allowed you to achieve the original shine of brass, then most likely you will have to remove the old varnish coating and apply a new one. It is possible to perform this procedure at home; to do this, you need to do the following.

• First you need to prepare a workplace, which can be a table surface covered with old newspapers or plastic wrap.
• The old protective coating is removed from brass using a brush and nail polish remover.
• After removing the old varnish, the brass must be thoroughly polished, for which special pastes are used.
• When the surface to be treated is polished to the required shine, a new layer of varnish can be applied to it using a brush or cotton swab. When applying varnish, you should ensure that its layer is uniform.

When performing the procedure of applying a protective varnish layer to brass, you should be very careful not to leave fingerprints on it or damage it with long nails or the tools used.

There are brass products in almost every home, so knowing how to clean them will be useful for anyone who wants to keep them in perfect condition.

Source: http://met-all.org/cvetmet-splavy/latun/chem-kak-chistit-latun-v-domashnih-usloviyah.html

Cleaning bronze, brass and copper items

To clean products made of copper and its alloys (brass and bronze), it is not at all necessary to purchase special cleaning products

In everyday life, we are surrounded by many different objects made from copper and its alloys - brass (an alloy of copper and zinc) and bronze (an alloy of copper and tin). Copper basins, coffee makers, mortars, candlesticks, door handles, plumbing fixtures and a whole range of decorative items. They are incredibly beautiful, comfortable, and practical.

But they have one common problem - time does not spare them, and gradually a copper coffee pot, a bronze figurine or a brass door handle begins to become covered with a “noble patina” - a not very aesthetic coating of an incomprehensible nature. Of course, for antique dealers, collectors and other aesthetes, this is a good sign indicating the longevity of the products.

But not for us - people who think rationally, who want to get rid of this very patina and other layers, but quickly.

The reason for this behavior of copper and its alloys lies in the aggressive manifestations of the environment. Air is a heterogeneous substance. This is a heterogeneous mixture of gases, containing, in addition to oxygen, a wide range of other inclusions: carbon dioxide, water and acid vapors, hydrogen sulfide. It is they, together with oxygen, that are responsible for the appearance of oxide and salt deposits on the surface of our favorite products. But there is no need to be upset. There are many ways to combat this unpleasant phenomenon.

The easiest way to clean

A small amount of regular dishwashing detergent combined with tooth powder or toothpaste is dissolved in hot water. The resulting composition is used for cleaning products made of copper and its alloys. The method is good, but not always effective enough, especially in cases where a more radical approach is needed.

Table salt and whey

A good way to clean copper, bronze and brass is to treat the product with a whey solution with added salt. A spoonful of salt is dissolved in 200 ml of whey. Then a soft rag is impregnated with this composition and the product is processed, after which the item is washed generously with running water, wiped dry and thus acquires new life.

Lemon juice and table salt

The method using salt and lemon juice gives very good results. The lemon is cut into two parts. Each of the halves is sprinkled with salt and used as a kind of tampon to treat problem areas of the surface of the product. Upon completion of the operation, the item is thoroughly rinsed in running water, wiped dry and polished with a soft, dry cloth.

This method can be improved somewhat. The lemon is squeezed into a small container, and salt is added there in the amount necessary to obtain a porridge-like substance. The product is cleaned with the resulting mixture using a soft rag, then rinsed, wiped and polished with cloth or flannel.

Technology using ketchup

The method is quite extravagant, but it works. Ketchup perfectly removes oxide deposits from the surface of copper alloys. To do this, apply a small amount of ketchup to the product and wait a few minutes. Then the item is wiped with a sponge, napkin or cloth, rinsed under running water and wiped dry, after which it acquires its original appearance and shine.

Some may find this method wasteful. Not at all, any ketchup, even the cheapest, will do for cleaning, and you only need a little bit of it.

Salt, vinegar, flour

A tablespoon of salt is stirred in a glass of vinegar. Flour is added to the prepared solution until it acquires a mushy consistency. The mixture is applied to a copper, bronze or brass product and left in this form for 20-40 minutes. Next, the paste is washed off from the object. The product is wiped dry and polished.

The effectiveness of this method can be increased if you add a little sawdust to the resulting “dough” and, before rinsing, thoroughly wipe the product directly with the paste itself.

Boiling in vinegar-salt solution

This composition can be used without heat treatment, using it for mechanical manual cleaning. But in problematic cases, you cannot do without boiling. To do this, add a glass of vinegar and a spoonful of salt to a pan of water. Next, place the product and boil until the cleaning result is visually noticeable. When the item has cooled, it should be washed well with soap and warm running water.

Paste based on chalk and ammonia

To prepare the paste you will need a 25% ammonia solution, ground chalk and water. The ingredients are mixed in a ratio of 5:2:10. The product is lubricated with the resulting composition and left for 10-15 minutes. Then the item is thoroughly wiped with a stiff bristle brush, rinsed well and wiped dry with a clean soft rag.

Laundry soap

A good effect when cleaning products made of copper, bronze and brass is achieved by using ordinary unbleached laundry soap. Soap 72% is grated on a coarse grater and mixed in warm water. The product is immersed in the resulting solution and left in it for a period of one to three days, after which it is well treated with a brush, washed and wiped. In untreated cases, this procedure can return our products to their original appearance.

Oxalic acid, turpentine, ethyl alcohol

An excellent composition for cleaning and it is easy to prepare: 1 ml of oxalic acid is mixed with 4 ml of turpentine, 5 ml of ethyl alcohol and 1 ml of plain water. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and applied to the object with a soft rag swab. Turpentine and alcohol remove the greasy film from the metal, and oxalic acid neutralizes plaque, the remains of which are easily washed off with soap from the surface of the product.

Kerosene and chalk

This method is especially good for products with a smooth polished surface. The object is moistened with kerosene and rubbed with chalk using a wool or cotton rag. In this way, it is possible not only to remove plaque, but also to restore the former shine of the surface.

Cleaning Copper Coins

Ancient coins, as well as some Soviet ones, which are becoming increasingly popular among collectors, often need cleaning. It is quite possible to restore their original appearance. Bright green plaque is removed with a swab soaked in a 10% citric acid solution. A reddish coating is removed by immersing the coin in a 5% ammonia solution, and a yellowish coating is removed with a 9% vinegar solution.

How to refresh jewelry made of copper and its alloys

To restore the former shine to jewelry or small products made of copper and its alloys, they need to be immersed for half an hour in a boiling solution of soda ash at the rate of 40 g per liter of water. You can polish brass, bronze and copper surfaces with a special mixture consisting of 15 g of tooth powder, 30 g of a 10% ammonia solution and 50 g of water. For these purposes, a piece of cloth or flannel is used.

Source: http://bestolkovyj-narod.ru/ochistka-izdelij-iz-medi/

How can you clean brass?

Alloy jewelry and parts are widely used due to their brilliance and special properties. However, during operation, darkening and oxides may appear on the metal. To maintain the shine of the alloy, you should know how to clean brass. This will help protect it from destruction.

What is brass and where is it used?

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. The material contains elements such as manganese, tin, aluminum and lead particles, which change the characteristics and color shades of the metal. Zinc was discovered in the 16th century, but brass was discovered in ancient times. The metal was obtained by melting copper and zinc-containing ore.

When making the alloy, up to 30% zinc is added to the composition, but to improve technical characteristics, up to 50% metal is added. Brass practically does not wear out and is used in the manufacture of automotive spare parts, serpentine elements, heating radiators, as well as stamped parts and various accessories. Alloy brass is used for the production of aircraft, ships, watch parts and main pipes.

Using tombak (an alloy with a zinc content of no more than 10%) insignia is made. To protect elements from corrosion, cast brass is used. It is used to manufacture bearings, shut-off valves, and separators. Thanks to the properties of the alloy, compasses and heating radiators are produced. Cleaning of brass is carried out without the use of additional equipment and special products.

The metal is used in jewelry in the manufacture of costume jewelry, as well as counterfeit gold jewelry. in the alloy up to 15% zinc and the addition of 5% aluminum allows you to obtain a material similar to precious. This condition is used when making frames for icons, as well as other items in churches.

Alloy care methods

Before you begin cleaning your brass, you must do the following:

1. If parts or objects are coated with paints and varnishes, they must not be processed using aggressive agents. It is recommended to wipe with a cloth previously soaked in soapy water.
2. Oxidized areas and highly complex contaminants are removed using products that do not contain abrasive particles. Before processing, it is necessary to check the edges of brass parts; brushes with soft bristles are used.
3. Acetic, citric and hydrochloric acids quickly remove dirt and deposits on alloy objects. However, it is recommended to take precautions, sometimes substances can cause harm to brass products.
4. Do not wash dishes made of this metal; as a result, they will lose their initial shine.

Cleaning and polishing brass

The most effective ways

You can effectively clean brass using oxalic acid, which removes the most obsolete contaminants and oxides. However, it is recommended to use personal protective equipment (goggles and gloves). Step-by-step instruction:

1. In a plastic container, mix 25 grams of the substance per liter of water.
2. Wet a soft sponge in the solution and treat the alloy parts.
3. Rinse the metal after 15 minutes under running water.
4. Wash off the acid again with a solution of soap at a temperature of 30°C to 40°C.

Oxalic acid is found in many cleaning products. To remove traces of corrosion and rust, do the following:

• the solution is applied to the damaged area;
• wait up to 30 minutes, during which you can observe increased darkening of the contamination;
• carry out the treatment using brushes previously soaked in water;
• sprinkle the damaged area with baking soda and remove any remaining dirt with a rag;
• Rinse under water and wipe with a dry cloth.

How to clean brass at home

When removing contamination, use the following brass cleaning products:

1. Acetone is used to treat painted parts, as well as dull areas. It is recommended to use protective equipment (goggles and gloves). At the end of the process, it is necessary to rinse the parts under running water.
2. Tarnish on metal can be removed using toothpaste. Pre-wash the part in a solution consisting of soap and water. After treatment, rinse under running water and wipe with a soft cloth.
3. Vinegar can remove soot deposits on brass cookware. Add a tablespoon of salt to one mug of the substance. Mixed vinegar and salt are poured into a pan and heated. Then the alloy products are lowered into a container for cleaning. Cooking lasts at least 3 hours; when the solution boils, it should be restored; it is recommended to maintain the proportion.
4. Lemon or acid helps remove oxidation and plaque at home. This method uses soda, it is first applied to the metal, then it is rubbed with cut slices of citrus fruits. Afterwards the composition is washed off with running water.
5. Use emery to clean heavy dirt. During the processing process, it is not recommended to use abrasives with large particles.
6. Salt gives brass its lost shine. Alloy manufacturers recommend using the substance in combination with vinegar.

Lemon and acid for cleaning

How to clean brass at home

To avoid cleaning brass until it shines, you should take preventive measures:

• carry out weekly treatment of products using a dry cloth, protect alloy parts from dust and dirt;
• prevent direct sunlight from hitting brass utensils; it is recommended to store them in drawers;
• avoid high humidity in the room;
• It is forbidden to store jewelry made of different metals in the same container, and it is recommended to line the boxes with fabric;
• In case of tarnishing and corrosion, it is necessary to use brass cleaning products at home.

What to do if there is no result

If strong oxidation cannot be removed during processing, alloy manufacturers recommend using the following materials:

• Professional products effectively clean the alloy from traces of oxide. After cleaning, rinse under water and wipe with a dry cloth.
• Soap and water will help for prevention. The composition is obtained by mixing laundry soap in heated water. Place the brass in the composition, then wipe with a damp cloth.
• The final shine is achieved by processing with Goya paste.

What not to do and use

Forbidden:

• clean jewelry and costume jewelry using a coarse-grain abrasive material;
• frequently use citric acid, as it can damage the metal surface;
• Clean brass with coarse materials and brushes with high-hard bristles.

If you follow the technology and precautions at home, you can clean the alloy of copper and zinc.
It is recommended to use personal protective equipment. How to clean bronze and brass.
The best method! Icon, yarn, sign. How to clean brass? Cleaning with citric acid

How can you clean brass? Link to main publication

Source: https://metalloy.ru/obrabotka/chistka/latuni-doma

How to clean brass from oxide at home until it shines?

Metal products made from a mixture of zinc and copper have an original color, extraordinary shine and are wear-resistant. But not everyone knows how to clean brass from oxide at home until it shines. Usually figurines, dishes and decorations are simply put in a closet. In fact, there are a large number of ways to restore them. They are absolutely accessible and safe.

To clean, it is not necessary to contact specialists or purchase aggressive chemicals. Before starting the process, you should make sure that the product is indeed made of brass. To do this, you need to take a small magnet and attach it to the accessory. If there is attraction, this is not a real alloy. After checking, you can safely begin processing.

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. Tin, manganese, lead, nickel, and aluminum can be added to it. The composition affects the color and properties.

Zinc, the main component of brass, was only discovered in the 16th century. At the same time, people knew about it before our era. For example, in Rome they made alloys of copper with zinc ore and created dishes and jewelry.

Then production began in Central Asia, from there the accessories came to Rus', where their unique shine and high quality were also appreciated. After zinc was discovered in 1746, brass appeared in the form familiar to modern times.

The standard formula is the proportion of copper and zinc 1 to 2. Now zinc can be added much less, no more than 30 percent. For technical alloys the percentage increases to 50%. The more zinc there is in a product, the lower its price.

Such alloys are considered one of the most common; they are called eternal metals because they hardly wear out. Two-component types, where zinc is 20 percent, are used for automobile spare parts, coils, and heating equipment. The 40% composition is suitable for stamped products and accessories. Multi-component brasses have a very wide range of applications. They are used to make aircraft, pipes, watches, springs, and ships.

Tombac, which contains up to 10 percent zinc, is used to create artistic accessories and decals. Cages, fittings and bearings are made from cast brass to provide rust resistance. Automatic alloy is used for fasteners.

Resistance to magnetic attraction makes it possible to make compasses, and high heat capacity makes it possible to make samovars. Objects for the church are made from brass, such as the frame of an icon. The cost of the alloy is quite low, and prestigious items such as the famous Zippo lighters are made from it.

It is also successfully used in jewelry. Yellow, golden and green types are used. If it contains 15% zinc and 5% aluminum, the item looks very similar to gold. A good specialist is able to create a product from such an alloy that will be difficult to distinguish from a precious metal.

Before you start cleaning, to make the product shine, you should familiarize yourself with the following recommendations:

1. Items with brass or varnish coating must not be treated with aggressive agents. They are wiped with a rag or cotton pad, previously dipped in a soap solution.
2. Severe dirt or oxides require the use of cleaning products that do not contain abrasive components. They are bought in special stores or made at home. First you should test it on an inconspicuous area of ​​the accessory. To remove plaque, use brushes with soft bristles.
3. Compositions with acetic, citric or hydrochloric acid act quickly and effectively, but if used incorrectly they will cause harm. Therefore, you need to act with the utmost caution.
4. Do not try to wash brass utensils in the dishwasher. It will darken and lose its aesthetic appearance.

To clean products until they shine, use the following products:

• oxalic acid;
• acetone;
• toothpaste;
• vinegar;
• lemon acid;
• emery;
• soapy water;
• salt;
• professional products.

Let's take a closer look at each method.

Oxalic acid

It cleanses the most “burnt-in” dirt. When working with it, it is important to wear protective gloves and a respirator. Step-by-step algorithm of actions:

1. For 1 liter of water you need no more than 25 g of acid. Mix the ingredients in a plastic barrel.
2. Dip a soft sponge into the solution and carefully treat the brass items.
3. Wash off after a quarter of an hour.
4. Wash with soap and warm water.

Before using this method, you should check the authenticity of brass products using a magnet. The alloy is resistant to its effects.

This ingredient is often included in household chemicals. They do an excellent job of getting rid of oxidation and rust. To cleanse you need:

• apply the product to darkened areas;
• wait 30 minutes. During this time, areas may become even blacker, but this is a normal process. Thus, the acid deposit is separated from the coating;
• treat with a brush moistened with water;
• Apply a small amount of baking soda and remove any remaining dirt with a wet cloth;
• rinse with water, wipe thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Acetone

Acetone perfectly helps in the fight against dullness of the alloy and removes paint from objects. Step-by-step algorithm:

1. Wear protective gloves and soak a cotton pad in the product.
2. Intensively work on dark areas on a candle holder or other accessories.
3. Rinse under running water using a cleaning agent.
4. Wipe with a cloth until dry.

Toothpaste

For moderate tarnish, toothpaste will help. For processing you need:

1. Wash the alloy in soapy water.
2. Apply paste to the brush and begin cleansing. There is no need to rub too vigorously, as the dirt will come off quickly anyway. If after ten minutes the effect is not noticeable, it is better to move on to other methods.
3. Rinse accessories in water and wipe thoroughly with a dry soft cloth.

Vinegar

The product copes well with soot and oxides on brass products. Algorithm of actions:

1. Pour water into the pan, then add vinegar and salt. Take 1 tbsp per mug of vinegar. l. salt.
2. Wait for the mixture to boil.
3. Place items requiring processing.
4. Boil for at least three hours. The ingredients will boil over, so you should add them in small quantities. It is worth observing the proportions described above.
5. Rinse thoroughly and wait until dry.

You can prepare vinegar dough. For this you will need:

• mix vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio, add a glass of flour;
• apply the product to the brass basin, wait a little;
• wipe with a wet cloth, the sour coating will be removed along with the mixture;
• rinse, wipe with a dry cloth.

Citric acid

Citrus and baking soda are great for helping with oxidation. Algorithm of actions:

• pour plain soda (60 g) into water (50 ml);
• apply the composition using a sponge to a brass mortar, wait 20 minutes;
• cut the lime into two parts;
• process the brass with pulp, leave for 40 minutes;
• rinse with water and wipe.

If the desired effect is not observed, you should repeat the steps. The second time there should be a result.

Emery

In cases where brass accessories are heavily smoked, soft, fine-grained sandpaper will help. The pressure intensity should be light so as not to damage the coating. Hard-to-reach areas are treated using chemical methods.

Soapy water

This method will only help with minor stains. For processing you will need:

1. Pour warm water into the basin, add laundry soap or other cleaning agent.
2. Stir until foam forms.
3. Place the brass and hold until the solution cools, but no more than ten minutes.
4. Remove the accessories and use a brush with soft bristles, periodically moistened with water.
5. Wipe with a cloth.

Finally, the alloy should be polished with special polishes, for example, Goya paste. This will help achieve the desired shine.

Salt

Salt is mixed with lemon juice to clean brass. Also use 1 tbsp. l. of this product and 0.5 liters of buttermilk. The methods help to get rid of even intense dirt and give a spectacular shine.

1 tbsp is also used. l. fine salt along with low-fat cream. The paste must be applied to the product and wiped. Hard-to-reach areas require an hour-long soaking of the composition. Then rinse with water and dry. The salt must be completely dissolved, otherwise the item may be damaged.

Professional cleaning products

Acidic compounds such as Delu and Metalin eliminate heavy oxidation. When working with them, you must take protective measures by wearing gloves and a respirator. Recommendations for processing:

• use a cloth napkin during the process;
• strictly follow the instructions on the label;
• Finally, thoroughly rinse and dry the products.

A beautiful samovar turns an ordinary tea party into a celebration. But often dirt appears on the sides and inside. Methods for cleaning them depend on the material of the device.

An alloy of copper and zinc is often used to create samovars due to their strength, aesthetic appearance, and ease of processing. With a long period of operation, old products become dull and become greasy. Household chemicals can ruin it, so you should make formulations from available products:

1. A solution of ammonia (1 tsp) and water (1 l) helps.
2. Yogurt without additives gently cleanses. It needs to be applied to the device, wait until it dries and rinse off.
3. Moisten the samovar with vinegar and add salt. Rub the coating with a cloth dipped in vinegar.

Do not use abrasives on the device. After treatment, the outside should be polished with a dry cloth. It must be left in dry rooms. Excessive humidity causes dark spots to form.

• Do not treat figurines and jewelry with sandpaper.
• Citric acid will remove plaque, but can seriously damage the coating. There is no need to use it.
• Brass is prone to scratches, so long nails should be treated with extreme caution.

how to clean brass from oxide at home until it shines?

If all of the above methods do not work, you will need to change the varnish. This is quite simple and you can do it yourself at home using the following algorithm:

1. Lay out waterproof film to avoid damaging the floor with varnish. Wear special clothing - overalls or robe.
2. Take nail polish remover, dip a brush in it and move it over the varnish. It is important to use protective gloves and a respirator. Carry out the procedure away from fire, the product ignites very quickly.
3. Polish the products with polishes. Rub the composition onto the surface, then polish until shiny.
4. Apply a new coat of varnish. Distribute over the coating in an even thin layer using a brush. You can use cotton pads.
5. Wait until dry.
6. Clean the brass with a soft, dry cloth.

You can remove the varnish under hot running water. This method is considered the most gentle. Three-minute boiling in a container without aluminum alloy is also used. Purchase special varnish removers from metal product sales departments. It is important to carefully read the instructions for use on the package.

If there is no polish on the item and there is no result from cleaning, you should contact a specialist. They will quickly return things to their original appearance and give recommendations on how to care for them. But before that, it’s better to try to handle it yourself.

Cleaning up brass items yourself is quite simple. It is important to correctly follow the technology and understand the essence of the process. You should remember to take precautions, wear protective gloves and a respirator. After proper processing, the accessories will acquire a magnificent appearance and will delight the owners of the house and their guests.

Source: https://ubratdoma.ru/pyatna/kak-pochistit-latun-ot-okisi.html

How to clean brass from oxide at home

Brass rightfully occupies a significant place in the life of a modern person. Due to its physical properties, the alloy is used in many industries: mechanical engineering, production of sanitary products, jewelry. Many household items are also made from brass. However, not all housewives know how to properly care for it. The article discusses how to clean brass from oxide at home.

What is brass and where is it used?

Before moving on to considering the means that can be used to clean brass products, let’s briefly look at the main characteristics of the alloy. It is based on metals - zinc and copper.

They can be contained in the material in different proportions, which affects its properties and cost. The more zinc contained in brass, the more accessible it is.

Depending on the qualitative composition, there are two main types of brass:

1. Simple. Such alloys contain only two components - zinc and copper; the proportions of these metals may vary.
2. Special. In addition to the above metals, additional elements are included in the composition of the material. The most common additives are iron, lead, manganese and aluminum.

The physical properties of brass depend on impurities. However, regardless of the added substances, the alloy has the following advantages:

• strength;
• resistance to the development of corrosion processes;
• plastic;
• low friction coefficient.

Due to the listed properties, brass is actively used in the following industries:

• automotive industry;
• electric power industry;
• construction industry;
• instrument making;
• chemical industry;
• jewelry making;
• artistic casting.

Alloy care rules

If not properly cared for, brass products can oxidize. In this case, blackness and characteristic spots appear on the surface, most often pink or green. It is quite difficult to wash them, so it is best to remember and put into practice the basic rules for caring for products made from this alloy:

1. Small items such as jewelry, souvenirs and accessories should be stored in special protective cases or boxes.
2. Products should be cleaned from time to time using a soft woolen cloth.
3. If the surface of brass objects is covered with a special varnish, it is enough to rid them of dust deposits once a month using a soap solution.
4. Brass does not tolerate direct sunlight or moisture, so it is best to store it in a dark place with low humidity.
5. To clean brass until it shines, you should first treat it with water left over from cooking any legumes, such as peas. Then wash with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

How to clean brass from oxide and plaque at home

If oxide still appears on brass products, do not despair. There are several proven methods that can help clean them quite effectively. The following describes in detail how to quickly and easily clean brass at home.

How to clean brass at home: 14 best treatments, how to protect it

Brass is used to make a large number of household items, including kitchen utensils and decorative items. Periodic cleaning allows you to maintain the shine and decorative characteristics of objects. There are several options for cleaning brass, and depending on the condition of the products, you need to choose the appropriate method.

Rules for caring for the alloy at home

Before you start cleaning the product, it is important to make sure that it is accurately made of brass. Many objects appear to be brass in appearance and tactile sensations, but are made of similar metals. To check, you need to attach a magnet to the surface, and if it does not stick, then it is brass.

If an item begins to fade over time, it is not necessary to clean it. Darkening does not always mean that the top layer has begun to oxidize, and such an external change has its own attractiveness.

To protect the product without extensive cleaning, simply coat it with a polishing compound and lightly wipe it.

Folk remedies

In most situations, to restore the shine of brass products, it is enough to use traditional methods. The means at hand allow you to clean objects, regardless of their shape and size, without much expense.

Lemon acid

Citric acid granules are sprinkled onto the brass coating and rubbed vigorously into the contaminated areas. You can also make a cleanser using half a lemon and a pinch of salt. The lemon is thoroughly coated in salt and the dark spots on the product are smeared. This method is suitable for removing both recent and old oxidation.

Emery

Sandpaper is used to clean large products with a large volume of oxides. For example, you can use sandpaper to sand a brass basin or fireplace grate. It is important to consider that after rubbing with sandpaper, the product will lose its original shine, so you should resort to this method for items that do not require special handling. Brass jewelry, decorative items and rare items are cleaned using other means.

Soapy water

Newly appeared oxide stains can be removed with a soap solution. It is recommended to use laundry soap, which effectively cleans the brass surface. You can rub in soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge.

For more convenient cleaning, you can fill a container or sink with warm water, dissolve soap in it and immerse the item in the liquid for a few minutes.

After soaking, the brass is rinsed with clean water, wiped and polished to restore its original shine.

Salt

You can clean brass with fine salt, which is mixed with low-fat cream. The mixture is applied to the oxidized areas and rubbed in. To treat old stains, it is recommended to pre-soak the mixture for an hour.

Before you start cleaning, you need to make sure that the salt has dissolved, otherwise small particles may destroy the surface.

Vinegar dough

Using vinegar, a common method for processing sour dough is. It is suitable for application to products containing copper. The method is as follows:

1. Mix 1 cup of flour and 0.5 cups of warm liquid and vinegar.
2. The oxidized areas are covered with the resulting dough with a thick consistency and left to dry.
3. After the dough has dried, it is carefully torn off the surface and the product is polished with a soft cloth.

As an additional measure, you can treat the product with a polishing agent. This will help restore the shine of the product.

Special cleaning products

In addition to folk remedies, you can use substances based on a concentrated acid solution. These products are effective in treating old oxide stains and cleaning large items.

"Case"

The “Delu” product is acidic in nature and removes old oxidation and stains on the surface of the alloy. When using special equipment, you need to wear a respirator and rubber gloves for safety reasons.

"Metalin"

The Metalin cleaner removes oxides, oil and fat stains, fingerprints, and mineral deposits from the brass surface. When using the product, you need to consider the following recommendations:

1. Use a solution in a concentration of no more than 20% and dilute it with warm water.
2. Treat with a soft sponge, rag, brush or by immersion in liquid. Soak for 1-2 minutes.
3. Before cleaning, test the reaction of brass to the substance in an inconspicuous area.
4. After completing the procedure, rinse the product with water and dry.

How to clean a samovar

Cleaning the samovar is carried out according to the standard procedure. To remove stains in hard-to-reach areas, you can use a toothbrush or a thin brush.

How to change varnish

The varnish coating of products protects against oxidation and maintains a good appearance. If the layer is damaged, a new varnish is required. Remains of varnish can be removed under water pressure. Then all that remains is to wipe the product and apply a new layer.

How to remove slight tarnish

There are several remedies for removing minor tarnish. All options are accessible and easy to use.

Yogurt

Apply yogurt to dull areas and wait until it dries. Then the product is washed off and the surface is thoroughly wiped.

Lime and soda

The combination of lime and baking soda helps combat oxidation on the brass surface. To clean the product you need to do the following:

• dilute 60 g of baking soda in 50 ml of water;
• Apply the resulting mixture with a sponge and leave for 20 minutes;
• cut the lime in half and apply one part to the dull areas;
• wait 40 minutes, wash the product with warm water and wipe dry.

If necessary, repeat the steps until the desired effect is achieved.

Source: https://hozzi.ru/chistka/latun