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How do you clean bronze?

Published in Cleaning 2 mins read

You can clean bronze using a simple homemade paste of vinegar, flour, and salt.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

Cleaning Bronze: A Simple Method

This method utilizes readily available household ingredients to remove tarnish from bronze.

Materials You'll Need:

  • White Vinegar
  • All-purpose Flour
  • Salt
  • Glass Bowl
  • Soft Cloths
  • Olive Oil (optional, for polishing)

Steps:

  1. Prepare the Cleaning Paste: In a glass bowl, mix 2/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour.
  2. Add Salt: Add 1/2 cup of salt to the mixture and stir thoroughly until a smooth paste forms.
  3. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste evenly over the tarnished bronze surface, ensuring complete coverage.
  4. Wait: Allow the paste to sit on the bronze for 1 to 2 hours. The longer the paste sits, the more effective it will be at removing tarnish.
  5. Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the bronze item with clean water to remove all traces of the paste.
  6. Dry: Use a soft, clean cloth to dry the bronze item completely.
  7. Polish (Optional): For extra shine and protection, apply a small dab of olive oil to a clean, soft cloth and buff the bronze surface.

Important Considerations:

  • Test First: Before applying the paste to the entire bronze item, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't damage the finish.
  • Avoid Abrasives: Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as these can scratch the bronze surface.
  • Delicate Items: For delicate or antique bronze items, consider consulting a professional conservator or using a specialized bronze cleaner.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean and restore the luster of your bronze items.