Brass jewelry has gained popularity these past years. What makes brass popular is its affordability and unique appearance. However, brass can develop tarnish and lose its luster over time if not cared for properly. Yet, for those who want brass’s natural shine and brightness, regular cleaning may be the solution for it. Read this article on how to clean brass jewelry and what to consider when cleaning it to understand the procedure thoroughly. 

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How to Clean Brass Jewelry?

Regular cleaning can effectively remove and reduce tarnish, restoring your brass's shine and extending its lifespan. Since there is no best way to clean brass jewelry, including earrings, rings, and chains, but several effective techniques, you can choose the one that is most convenient for you. So, let's see how to chemically clean brass. 

Lemon and salt method

Lemon and salt is the first method you should try when removing dirt from brass jewelry. For this, you’ll need a fresh lemon, salt, toothbrush, and warm water to rinse the jewelry piece afterward.

To begin, cut the lemon in half, sprinkle a generous amount of salt on the cut part, and gently rub the salted lemon onto the brass jewelry. The lemon’s acidity and the salt’s abrasiveness will help lift tarnish and grime. If your jewelry has delicate designs or hard-to-reach spots, use a toothbrush to get into those spots without scratching the metal. Once satisfied with the result, rinse the jewelry thoroughly with warm water to remove the lemon and salt residue. Lastly, pat the jewelry dry with a soft cloth and brush it gently to restore its shine.

Vinegar and salt method

For the vinegar and salt method, you’ll need to mix equal parts of white vinegar and table salt in a small bowl and mix until the salt dissolves into the vinegar. This solution is great for breaking down tarnish and dirt on brass.

There are two ways you can use this method on your jewelry – dipping it directly into the solution, or dipping a soaked soft cloth or sponge and rub the jewelry.

When utilizing the first method, you need to dip the jewelry into the solution for 30 seconds, then rinse with clean water to remove the vinegar and salt residue. The same goes when using a soaked cloth with one difference – you need to rub the cloth directly on the jewelry piece. We advise you not to rub too hard, as it could scratch the surface of delicate pieces.

Whichever method you choose, thoroughly dry the jewelry with a soft cloth. To finish, wipe the brass with a polishing cloth. Polishing brass jewelry restores its natural shine.

Baking soda paste method

If you wonder how to clean brass jewelry with baking soda, the process is simple. You just need to mix equal parts baking soda and water in a small bowl to create a thick paste. Use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to apply the paste onto the brass jewelry. Gently rub the paste in circular motions to avoid scratching, and let the paste sit on the jewelry for 5-10 minutes to break down the tarnish. Rinse the jewelry thoroughly with warm water to remove the baking soda. Lastly, use a clean, soft cloth to dry and brush the jewelry until it restores its shine.

Ketchup method

Many wonder how to clean brass jewelry with ketchup since it is an unconventional method. Start by applying a small amount of ketchup onto the brass surface. Then, gently rub the ketchup into the jewelry with a soft cloth or an old toothbrush. For 5-10 minutes, let the ketchup's acidity break down the tarnish. Using warm water, rinse the jewelry piece. Pat it dry with a clean cloth and brush the piece to shine. 

However, be cautious when using this method. The acidity of the ketchup may damage delicate stones (if there are any) on the jewelry piece.

Important Considerations

Brass is a relatively soft metal requiring gentle care when cleaning to avoid scratches or damage. Harsh scrubbing or abrasive tools can tarnish the metal’s surface, so we recommend using a soft cloth or a mild brush. A simple cleaning solution of soapy water is usually sufficient for regular cleaning. After that, you should rinse your jewelry piece and pat dry to avoid water stains. For a deeper clean, you should use the methods mentioned above.

Special care is required if the brass jewelry has a protective coating, such as a lacquer or a sealant. The coating prevents tarnish but can be damaged by abrasive cleaning methods. In these cases, we advise you to avoid using harsh cleaners that can break down the sealant.

Instead, gently wipe the piece with a soft cloth soaked in warm water and a little soap. Avoid soaking the jewelry for long periods, as this can weaken the coating. After cleaning, dry it thoroughly and store it in a cool, dry place to preserve the finish and prevent future tarnish.

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Conclusion

Now that you know how to clean brass jewelry, you can choose the method that is most helpful for you. Basically, you can clean tarnished brass jewelry with soapy water, lemon and salt, vinegar and salt, and baking soda paste. Regardless of the method you choose, clean it gently to avoid scratches or damage. 

Knowing how to clean tarnished brass jewelry effectively will help you maintain your favorite brass pieces for years.