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world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Cleaning brass hinges

 

I have brass hinges and handles in my kitchen and I would like to know a fast and effective way to clean them so that they will shine? My house is pretty old and I am currently trying to remodel and restore what I can of it. These kitchen cabinets are the origianl ones. Thank you very much

Kerry Bryant
- Calera, Oklahoma

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To do the job proper, all hardware should be removed, unless you are talking about a light discoloration and/or oxidation. Even though you say this is brass, it is surprising what is really plated. For light work and plated materials, I would suggest ( if you have equipment) putting them in a small vibratory machine with dry polishing media. This might be done in a chemically, but someone else can answer that better.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
 

Place your hardware into a crockpot with a little laundry detergent and 'cook' them overnight. The paint will nearly slide off the next morning. Be careful and use tongs. Only remove one piece at a time, as the paint will re-dry very quickly. Good luck!

Neil McGee
self - Mission Viejo, California, USA
November 28, 2008