How to Clean Bronze Metal

Keep bronze clean and polished with common household items.

Once air and moisture encounter bronze, it begins to appear dull and a green layer begins to form on the surface. While some people like this dark appearance, others prefer to keep the bronze shiny and clean. Instead of purchasing a commercial cleaner from the store, clean the bronze at home with natural ingredients to retain its sparkling appearance.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tbsp. baking soda
• Small bowls
• Lemon juice
• Clean, soft cloths
• Flour
• Salt
• Vinegar

Instructions

1. Add 1 tbsp. of baking soda to a small bowl. Squeeze an equal amount of lemon juice over the baking soda and stir until a paste forms.

2. Rub the paste onto the bronze with a clean cloth. Leave the mixture on the bronze for two to three hours, then remove it by running warm water over the bronze.

3. Dry off the bronze with a clean, soft cloth. If the bronze still appears dull, clean it with vinegar.

4. Combine an equal amount of flour and salt into a small bowl. Add 2 to 3 tbsps. of each for best results.

5. Slowly add vinegar to the dry ingredients until a thick paste forms.

6. Rub the paste onto the bronze pieces and allow to sit for 30 minutes.

7. Wash off the paste under running water. Dry the bronze with a soft cloth.

References

• Fine's Gallery: Bronze Care and Cleaning
• IQIO: Cleaning Bronze
• Mouse Cleaning: Stainless Steel and Other Metal Cleaning