Chemicals for Cleaning Brass

Proper cleaning and polishing can restore shine to brass items.brass duck image by Edsweb from Fotolia.com

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is used for decoration, musical instruments, gears and many other applications. While this gold-toned metal is resistant to tarnish, it can develop discoloration and oxidation when exposed to the elements. The key to maintaining luster on a solid brass item is to clean and polish it with chemicals of the proper pH.

Caustic Chemicals

High pH chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach, work to remove a layer of brass. This process can dissolve the metal, resulting in complete removal of tarnish and oxidation. Only use this for severely tarnished items, as the process can eat away the brass if it's not tended to carefully. Caustic chemicals are used to restore the most damaged brass pieces, which can then be clear-coated or waxed.

Low pH chemicals, such as maleic, tartaric and citric acid, work to remove the tarnish alone. Even foods, such as vinegar, ketchup, cream of tartar, milk and lemon juice can remove and soften light tarnish without damaging the brass. After tarnish removal, a light coating of oil or polish will restore shine to the brass item.

Many store-bought brass cleaners, whether caustic or acidic, contain fine mineral or synthetic abrasive materials to polish the brass. Do-it-yourselfers commonly use baking soda and salt to create a polishing action in homemade brass cleaners. Abrasives scratch away the surface of the brass and tarnish, resulting in a bare surface ready to clear coat or oil. Excessive use of abrasives can result in a brushed or scratched appearance.

Brass items can benefit from a thin coating of oil to prevent future tarnish and oxidation. Boiled linseed oil, olive oil and lemon oil are all useful as a polish and protectant on clean brass. When buffed into the metal, the oil creates an additional shine and acts as a barrier between the brass and air. Use oils sparingly to prevent excess buildup on the brass item.