How to Clean Bronze Statues

Bronze statues make a nice accompaniment to the décor of a home just by its very presence. Bronze is an alloy comprised predominantly of copper and tin, and since 3 B.C. has been used in everything from weapons to decorative tiles. Nowadays it is commonly used in musical instruments such as saxophones and bells. Bronze is still a favorite for making statues. Cleaning bronze statues is very easy and helps them to always look nice in your home.

Things You'll Need

• Coconut oil
• Soft, clean cloth
• Distilled water
• Dish soap
• Flour
• Vinegar
• Salt
• Lemon

Instructions

1. Pour a small amount of coconut oil onto a soft clean cloth and wipe the entire statue with it. This helps the statue return to or stay in its most natural state. Coconut oil will not discolor the statue.

2. Dip a clean soft cloth in a solution of 2 cups distilled water and one tablespoon of a mild dish soap to clean grime away from the surface.

3. Dust the statue regularly, at least once a week. Too much dust can damage the surface. Use a soft, clean, dry cloth and dust the statue thoroughly. For hard-to-reach areas, use a soft bristle brush.

4. Mix a paste of 1 tbsp. salt, 1 tbsp. of flour and 1 tbsp. of vinegar until you have a thick paste. Apply the paste to the tarnished areas of the statue. Allow the paste to sit on the on the statue for five minutes and wipe it away with a clean damp cloth. Use a dry clean cloth to polish the statue.

5. Cut a lemon in half and dip it in salt. Rub the lemon over the statue to eliminate tarnish. Use a dry, clean cloth to buff the shine back onto the statue.

Tips & Warnings

• Using regular tap water to clean a bronze statue may damage it.