How to Clean Rusted Cymbols

Cymbals, they either shine or not and if you're like me, then you must love to look at shinny cymbals. Professional drummers always seem to have new cymbals because they always shine and have a nice clean sound. Well, maybe they are not new, maybe the secret is that they get a cleaning once in a while. Rusted cymbals not only affect the appearance of the set, but distort the sound of a crash or a simple hit. These steps will help you give the appearance that you have new cymbals and improve the quality of the sound of the drum set.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rusted cymbals
• towel
• scrub brush
• Formula 409 or Comet
• Professional Cymbal Cleaner
• Warm water(in a bucket)

1. First of all, you need the find the perfect place. This includes a place where you will not leave much mess behind. Preferably a grassy area like yard. Once you have the spot, prepare the bucket with warm water, the comet or 409, cymbal cleaner, scrub brush, and towel.

2. Lay the cymbal on the grass and cover an area with comet or 409, whichever you like. Only a small amount, this is only to loosen the dirt or grime that is deeply hidden, too much may damage the cymbal. It also helps make the process much easier. Leave on for about five minutes and then scrub. Always remember to scrub in the direction of the ridges or grooves of the cymbal. Do a section at a time only.

3. After you are finished deep cleaning the cymbal, you can now go ahead and put on the professional cymbal cleaner paste. I personally use and prefer either "Zildjian Cymbal Cleaning Polish" or "Buckaroo Cymbal Cleaner."
   You can try all different kinds ans see which works best for your cymbal and wallet. Do the same as you did with the household product. A section at a time, wait 5-15 minutes(depending on how rusty it is), and then wipe in the direction of the groove of the cymbal. Repeat the process until, you can see your own reflection. You should have the look of a new cymbal in your hand. The quality of the sound will also improve.

Tips & Warnings

• I really suggest that you experiment with different cymbal cleaners. Some may react different than others to the cymbal.
• Maintain the cymbals. Clean at least once every two months. Depending on how much you use them.
• Try not to touch your cymbals too much. Always get from the sides.
• Many of these cleaning products may be harmful and strong. Use precautions and cover if necessary to allow air to go in.