How to Clean Yellow Brass That Is Oxidized?

Keep brass clean and handle with care to prevent oxidation.

Yellow brass, an alloy of copper and nickel, is commonly used to make instruments, home fixtures and decorations. This shiny, bright yellow metal can oxidize over time from exposure to humidity, oils and trace elements in the air. Oxidized yellow brass appears dull, dark and green in spots. Handling brass without cleaning afterwards can cause fingerprints to appear on the metal months later. Clean oxidized yellow brass with acidic household products to reveal the bright, shiny metal underneath.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloths
• White vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt
• Dish soap
• Ketchup

Instructions

1. Dampen a cloth with white vinegar or lemon juice.

2. Sprinkle the cloth with salt, and rub the oxidized brass with the cloth until no tarnish remains. Reapply the vinegar and salt to the cloth as needed.

3. Wash the yellow brass with soapy water and a soft, clean cloth to remove any residue. Rinse the brass thoroughly with clean water and buff it dry with a cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have lemon juice or vinegar, use ketchup instead. Allow the ketchup to sit on the brass for 15 minutes before washing it away with soapy water and a cloth.

• Wash your hands and dry thoroughly before handling yellow brass.

• Do not use any cleaning products on lacquered brass. Wipe it with a dry cloth only.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Metal Protector
• Good Housekeeping: Cleaning Solid Brass