How to Care for Brass

Most brass items are coated with lacquer or urethane, which neither tarnishes nor requires polishing. Wash coated brass with warm water and mild dish soap. When it becomes tarnished, polish uncoated brass with a commercial brass polish. To determine whether a brass item is coated, rub with a soft cloth and brass polish. If a black residue rubs off on the cloth, the brass is uncoated.

When lacquer becomes worn, oxygen can penetrate fine scratches in the finish and tarnish the brass underneath. The brass will appear stained because polish won’t remove tarnish under the lacquer. To remove the tarnish, you’ll need to remove the protective coating. To remove lacquer from small items, brush with lacquer thinner or paint, let stand for 5 minutes, and remove with a soft brush. Larger items will need to be professionally polished.

Protect the lacquer on brass items with a twice-yearly application of paste wax. Apply the wax according to the manufacturer’s instructions and wipe off with a soft cloth. Most brass polishes contain oils that slow the buildup of tarnish, so maintain uncoated brass by polishing it when it shows signs of tarnish and by keeping it clean and dry.

Scratched or heavily tarnished brass requires repair by a professional metal finisher. Consult a furniture or lighting store for a local referral.