Why Should Lemon Juice Not Be Used to Clean Brass?

The natural acidity in lemon juice is damaging to metal, if left on too long.

Lemon juice has a high acid level, which makes it useful as a cleaning product. While some warn not to use it on metals, it actually does a good job of cleaning and polishing brass, but only when used properly.

Expert Insight

Pick lemons that have a bright yellow color and are slightly firm to the touch, which shows the lemon has a lot of juice. If the lemon is too hard, try placing it in a microwave for 10 seconds to heat it up and get the juice out easier.

Process

Combine equal parts distilled white vinegar and lemon juice and submerge the brass piece inside. Remove the brass object after a few seconds and wipe away the excess mixture. Gently buff the brass with a polishing cloth.

Warning

Leaving the brass in the mixture for a longer period of time may cause problems, especially with older or antique brass. The acidity of the lemon juice can strip away the patina if left on too long.

References

• Lemon Juice Organization: Interesting "Did You Know" Facts About Lemons
• Mrs. Clean House Cleaning Specialists: Tips for Cleaning Brass