Tarnish happens when a surface comes into contact with some type of oxidizing agent. Most of the time, that’s oxygen and sulfur in the air. However, this is less likely to happen with brass than most other metals because it’s made from copper and zinc, both of which are naturally resistant to oxidization. Luckily, there are many ways to protect your brass if you find yourself with a piece that’s been exposed to the elements. It’s not difficult to keep your brass from tarnishing, but it does take a bit of maintenance. Read on for some useful tips on how to keep brass from tarnishing!
How To Keep Brass From Tarnishing?
- Keep your brass from tarnishing by keeping your brass clean. If you have a tarnished brass item, it is time to clean it. I generally use a brass cleaner and then polish it with my Brasso/Brass cleaner on my rotary buffer.
- When using our brass cleaner, use a cotton cloth so that you do not scratch the surface of the brass.
- Be careful when polishing with Brasso or Brass Cleaner as it will leave behind a residue that can cause discoloration (rust).
- Do not leave your Brass and Brass items in the sunlight or heat for long periods of time as this will cause your brass to tarnish faster! If you must leave them in the sun, cover them with something that will protect their finish from the sun’s rays! Be sure to remove them before going into direct sunlight for extended periods of time!
- If you are using a soft bristle brush on our Brasso/Brass Cleaner, be sure to turn off the water supply and let your brush dry completely before using it again on any other items as this will prevent rusting if left wet on any other surfaces, especially metals! Be sure to use gloves while cleaning and also while wiping down your tools!
- Keep your tools clean and dry by wiping them down after every use with our Ease Wax or any other product containing petroleum jelly (Vaseline) such as WD-40 or Remington’s Steel Wool!
- Use a brass cleaner and polish regularly to keep your brass looking new!
- Be sure to store your brass in a dry area that is out of direct sunlight. Do not use any household cleaners or sprays to clean your brass because this can cause corrosion or discoloration!
- Don’t leave any of your tools outside at all times, especially if it’s hot where you live! Keep tools in the garage or shed where they will be protected from the elements and heat! You should also clean them after each use by wiping them down with a cloth dampened with our Ease Wax, WD-40, or Remington’s Steel Wool so that they are dry before storing them again.
- When storing your brass, do not leave them in plastic bags or containers as this will cause them to rust faster. Be sure to store them in a clean and dry place that is out of direct sunlight!
How To Stop Brass From Tarnishing?
- Do not use any household cleaners or sprays to clean your brass as this can cause corrosion or discoloration!
- Be sure to clean your brass regularly while they are still new and shiny with a brass cleaner and polish!
- Keep your brass in a dry place out of direct sunlight. Be sure to remove them before going into direct sunlight for extended periods of time!
- If you are using a soft bristle brush on our Brasso/Brass Cleaner, be sure to turn off the water supply and let your brush dry completely before using it again on any other items as this will prevent rusting if left wet on any other surfaces, especially metals! Be sure to use gloves while cleaning and also while wiping down your tools!
- Do not leave any of your tools outside at all times, especially if it’s hot where you live! Keep tools in the garage or shed where they will be protected from the elements and heat! You should also clean them after each use by wiping them down with a cloth dampened with our Ease Wax, WD-40, or Remington’s Steel Wool so that they are dry before storing them again.
- When storing your brass, do not leave them in plastic bags or containers as this will cause them to rust faster. Be sure to store them in a clean and dry place that is out of direct sunlight!
- If you have any questions or recommendations, feel free to leave a comment below!
Conclusion
Brass has long been used in all kinds of decorative pieces, from jewelry to door handles. It’s easy to clean and maintain, but it can still get a little tarnished if you don’t take care of it. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent and remove tarnish from brass items, from regular cleaning to sealants or coatings. No matter which method you choose, keeping your brass clean and protected will help you enjoy it for years to come.
