Difference between revisions of "Clean Brass Hinges"

#Determine if you have brass-plated metal.  There are two kinds of brass hinges: solid brass hinges, and hinges made of brass-plated steel, zinc, or cast iron.  Place a magnet next to the brass hinge you’re interested in cleaning.  If it sticks, you’ll know it is not made of solid brass.<ref name="rf1">https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-brass/#.WQjlWdLDGUk</ref>

#Wipe the brass hinge with soapy water.  Mix hot water with a few drops of liquid dish soap.  There is no need to measure the volume of soap or water – just get the solution sudsy.  Dip a warm sponge or cloth in the water and wipe the hinge down.<ref name="rf1" />

#Use ammonia on unlacquered brass plate.  If your brass-plated hinges are unlacquered, you could wipe the hinge with an old toothbrush or rag dipped in ammonia if soapy water doesn’t do the trick.  Rinse the hinges off in your sink beneath swiftly-flowing water.  Dry with a clean, soft cloth.<ref name="rf2">https://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111998</ref>

#Use a commercial cleaning product.  A wide variety of commercial cleaning products can help you clean brass.  While the specific directions for these products vary with manufacturer, generally you will spray the product on the brass hinge, then wipe it down with a clean cloth.<ref name="rf2" />

#Smear a tomato-based product on the hinge.  Apply a thin patina of ketchup, marinara sauce, or tomato paste to the brass hinge using a paper towel or hand cloth.  Allow the tomato-based product to remain on the brass hinge for about 60 minutes.  Dip a clean cloth or sponge in hot, soapy water, then scrub the brass hinge.<ref name="rf1" />

#Make a vinegar paste.  Combine equal parts vinegar, salt, and flour.  For instance, you might combine two tablespoons of vinegar, two tablespoons of salt, and two tablespoons of flour.  Smear this paste across the surface of the brass hinge.  Wait for about 60 minutes.  Rinse the hinge off with warm water.  Wipe it down with a dry cloth until it shines.<ref name="rf1" />

#Clean the hinge with a lemon.  Cut a lemon in half and remove the seeds from one half.  Cover the half of the lemon you removed the seeds from with salt.  Rub the face of the lemon (the flat side covered in salt) over the brass hinge.<ref name="rf3">http://www.howtocleanthings.com/surfaces/how-to-clean-brass/</ref>

#Create a paste from cream of tartar.  Combine two tablespoons of cream of tartar and one tablespoon of lemon juice.  Rub the paste on the hinge using a clean paper towel or an old toothbrush.  Allow the paste to sit for 30 minutes.  Then, dip a clean cloth in warm water and wipe the paste away.<ref name="rf1" />

#Combine baking soda and vinegar.  Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda in a bowl with steep sides.  For example, you could combine two tablespoons vinegar and two tablespoons baking soda.  The ingredients will fizz when combined.  Dip a soft-bristled brush or a soft cloth in the mix and wipe down the brass hinge for a minute or two.  Wipe the hinge clean with a damp rag, then dry it with a clean dish cloth.<ref name="rf4">https://www.reference.com/home-garden/clean-brass-hinges-e89fc9b83eafc8d6</ref>

#Coat the hinges in yogurt.  Use a spatula to lightly cover the hinge in plain yogurt.  Try to stand the hinges on their edges so as to coat the maximum surface area possible with yogurt.  Allow the yogurt to dry overnight.  Rinse the hinges thoroughly using warm water.  Use a toothbrush to get the yogurt out of any recesses where it might have coalesced.<ref name="rf3" />

#Simmer the hinges in milk.  Another dairy-based cleaning solution involves combing equal parts water and milk.  For instance, you might mix five tablespoons of water and five tablespoons of milk in small pot.  Whatever volume of each you choose to combine, ensure it coats the hinges completely.  Place the hinges in the pot, bring it to a boil, then turn the heat to its lowest setting.<ref name="rf3" />

#Remove paint from your hinges with a crockpot.  Place your brass hinges in a crockpot.  Cover the hinges with water.  Set the crockpot to low and let the hinges “cook” for a few hours.  Pull the hinges out using tongs or just conduct a visual inspection to discern whether the paint is coming off.<ref name="rf5">https://www.simplybeautifulkitchens.com/how-to-clean-kitchen-cabinet-hardware-and-knobs/</ref>

#Use soft cloths to clean your brass hinges.  Abrasive scrubbers made of steel wool or brushes with metal bristles will scratch your brass hinges.  Instead, always clean your brass hinges with a clean, soft towel or dish cloth.<ref name="rf1" />

#Apply oil after cleaning your brass hinges.  A thin layer of oil can prevent brass from tarnishing.  Dab a clean cloth with a bit of linseed, olive, lemon, or mineral oil.  Wipe the brass hinge lightly but thoroughly with the oil of your choice.<ref name="rf1" />

#Avoid touching your brass hinges.  Touching the brass hinges can leave behind fingerprints, and the oils in your hands will hasten tarnishing.  To keep your brass hinges looking new, adopt a “hands-off” policy.<ref name="rf1" />