Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Cleaning Mirrored Brass Elevator

Q. I am an executive housekeeper at a conference center/resort. I have a mirrored brass elevator that I am finding extremely difficult to clean. Brass polishes seem to stain the mirrored surface rather than polish it. What product should I use on mirrored brass?

Stella Ashley
-Prattville, Alabama , U.S.
2001

A. Dear Ms. Ashley,

Brass and bronze have a nasty tendency to tarnish, therefore clear lacquers are put over the metal to keep it from oxidizing. Generally, most lacquers can be cleaned with soapy water, brass polish is good to make the brass shiny before you coat it. If the problem is really bad, you might want to contact a metal maintenance firm in your area, they will come and strip the old coating off and put a new one on for you. Also, you might ask them for a good water-based coating, that way the guests staying at your hotel won't be offended by solvent odors.

Good luck,

Jake Koch
G. J. Nikolas &Co.,Inc.

Bellwood, Illinois

2001