How to Remove Chrome or Nickel Plating

Chrome or nickel plating on small objects can be removed with a stripper.

Chrome and nickel plating are applied to many types of metal, such as car parts and brass objects. If you need to remove a chrome or nickel finish from an object, a stripper will be needed. This is done by using chemicals to break down the chrome or nickel finish. To do this you will need to obtain the chemical that is needed to strip the plating from the object.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl or plastic container
• Acetone
• Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
• Toothbrush
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Fill the bowl or plastic container with acetone. You will need enough acetone to completely submerge the object.

2. Set the chrome- or nicked-plated object into the container of acetone. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to trap the fumes.

3. Allow the object to soak in the acetone for at least two hours.

4. Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the container. Remove the object from the acetone and set it on a cloth or towel.

5. Dip the bristle end of a toothbrush into the container of acetone. Scrub the object with the toothbrush to remove any remaining chrome or nickel.

6. Wipe the object with a clean cloth to remove the acetone. Rinse any excess acetone from the object by placing it under running water.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a face mask and rubber gloves when working with acetone.

• Chrome or nickel plating can be removed from metal and also plastics.

References

• 16X: Remove Chrome from Wheels

Resources

• Ipms-css: Removing Chrome Plating