Brass drawer pulls add a touch of vintage elegance to any piece of furniture, but over time, they can lose their luster and tarnish. Restoring their shine is a simple process that doesn’t require harsh chemicals. Whether your brass hardware is just a little dull or heavily tarnished, this guide will provide you with simple and effective methods to make it look new again.
How to tell if drawer pulls are solid brass or plated
Before you start cleaning, it’s crucial to determine if your hardware is solid brass or brass-plated. Cleaning methods for each are different, and using the wrong one could damage a plated finish.
- Magnet Test: The easiest way to check is with a magnet. If the magnet sticks firmly to the hardware, it’s brass-plated steel, not solid brass. A magnet will not stick to solid brass.
- Scratch Test: In an inconspicuous area, scratch the surface with a small, sharp object. If the metal underneath is a different color (often silver), the piece is brass-plated.
Everyday cleaning with soap and water
For simple dirt and grime, a gentle cleaning is all you need. This method is safe for both solid brass and brass-plated items.
- Remove Hardware: Take the drawer pulls off the furniture.
- Mix Solution: Create a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Wipe Down: Use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in the soapy water to wipe down the hardware.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the pulls under clean water and dry them completely with a soft cloth. This step is crucial to prevent water spots.
DIY polishing solutions: Lemon, vinegar & baking soda
For tarnished solid brass, you can create a powerful polishing paste using common household ingredients.
- Method 1: Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
- Mix equal parts lemon juice and baking soda to form a thick paste.
- Rub the paste onto the tarnished brass with a soft cloth.
- Let it sit for about 15–20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.
- Method 2: Vinegar and Salt
- Mix half a cup ( cup) of white vinegar, one tablespoon of salt, and a splash of water.
- Submerge the brass pieces in the solution and let them sit for a few hours. The mixture will dissolve the tarnish.
- Remove the pulls, rinse with clean water, and dry them well.
Store-bought brass cleaners vs. Homemade options
While homemade solutions are effective and non-toxic, there are times when a commercial cleaner might be necessary.
- Homemade Solutions:
- Pros: Safe, inexpensive, and readily available.
- Cons: May require more scrubbing for heavy tarnish and aren’t always as fast as commercial products.
- Store-Bought Cleaners:
- Pros: Fast-acting and formulated to handle heavy tarnish and oxidation.
- Cons: Can be more expensive and may contain harsh chemicals. Always test on an inconspicuous area first and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Note: Avoid using on brass-plated items as the chemicals can strip the finish.
Prevent tarnish with regular maintenance
Once your brass pulls are sparkling, you can keep them that way with a little preventative care.
- Regular Wiping: A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth every week or so can prevent the build-up of dirt and oils from hands, which contribute to tarnish.
- Wax or Lacquer: To create a protective barrier, you can apply a thin coat of carnauba wax or a clear lacquer specifically for metals. This is a great way to maintain the shine for a long time without frequent polishing.