How to Clean Gold Metal Plate

Dirt and oil can build up on gold and gold plate, so periodic cleaning is recommended. Though gold plate can be cleaned with a commercial jewelry cleaner or by a professional jeweler, it's easy to do the job with a few simple supplies at home.

Cleaning at Home

Cleaning gold plate at home requires a non-abrasive cleaner such as toothpaste or baking soda, a toothbrush and WD-40. The toothbrush is used to apply the toothpaste or baking soda to the gold plate. Scrubbing removes the dirt. A good rinsing with water and more scrubbing with the toothbrush removes the residue.

Tarnish

If any tarnish is present on the gold plate, it is usually because the plating is worn and the metal underneath is tarnishing, according to Finishing.com. Spraying WD-40 on the tarnish, letting it soak for a few minutes, then rubbing the tarnish off and rinsing with water, should work.

Polishing

A final shine with a soft, dry cloth polishes the gold plate and removes any remaining dirt and water. If the gold plate is damaged or wearing thin, replating by a plating shop is suggested.

References

• Finishing: Cleaning
• Mademan: How to Clean