How to Clean Rust From Brass Jewelry
Brass jewelry should be cleaned carefully since it is often hard to determine if brass items are solid brass or merely plated. Fortunately, many gentle, classic rust removers can polish brass, so you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen cabinet. Grab a bowl and your rusty brass jewelry so you can enjoy wearing your unique brass items once again. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Cleaning rags
- Mild detergent
- Salt
- White vinegar
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Bowl
- Baby toothbrush
- Toothpaste
Instructions
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1
Wipe down the jewelry using a damp rag with 2 drops of mild detergent. This will remove any dirt and grime so you can target the rust.
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2
Mix up a rust-removal brass-polishing solution. In the bowl, combine 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 tsp. salt and 1 tbsp. lemon juice. Add 1/2 cup flour and stir the mixture into a thick paste that can be spread but is not runny. If necessary, add 1 tbsp. baking soda to make the paste thicker.
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3
Smear your homemade brass polish on a clean, dry rag and rub down the brass jewelry. Polish with firm pressure and circular motions. You should start to see the rust coming off on the rag. Switch to a clean rag if the first rag gets too stained.
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4
Rinse the jewelry under warm water. If all the rust is gone, dry off the jewelry. If the rust has diminished but not disappeared, move on to Step 5.
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5
Scrub the brass jewelry with toothpaste. The toothpaste will loosen the rust and help remove any staining that is still visible. Use a baby toothbrush to work the paste into cracks and crannies in the jewelry.
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6
Rinse the brass jewelry. If the rust is not completely gone, repeat the process once or twice.
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7
Dry the jewelry completely. Use a clean, dry cloth. Make sure that no moisture is left to cause another rust problem.
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Tips & Warnings
Sour milk is a popular brass cleaner as well, but hold your nose!
Watch for flaking on brass-plated items, since if the plate is already damaged it will come off more easily. Use a light touch.
