Easy-Peasy Method to Clean Metal Hardware
I'm currently working on painting a Dixie nightstand. I like the current brass drawer pulls, but they are tarnished which won't look good against the crisp white paint I will be using. So rather than spending extra money on replacements I will clean the hardware up a bit instead. If you're like me and don't like working with harsh chemicals and cleaners, then try this easy method instead:
I learned about this method a few years ago and have used it a number of times. Place the hardware in a bowl and pour ketchup into it until the hardware is completely covered. Then simply wait and let the ketchup do the work for you. I let these sit in the ketchup bath for about half a day.
I rinsed the ketchup off with water and then used a scrubby sponge to wipe away the tarnish. It doesn't take too much scrubbing. If the tarnish is stubborn then another ketchup bath might be required until the desired result is achieved. These still have a bit of tarnish in the nooks and crannies, which could be further scrubbed away, but I liked the overall effect, so I proceeded onto the final step.
I learned about this method a few years ago and have used it a number of times. Place the hardware in a bowl and pour ketchup into it until the hardware is completely covered. Then simply wait and let the ketchup do the work for you. I let these sit in the ketchup bath for about half a day.
I rinsed the ketchup off with water and then used a scrubby sponge to wipe away the tarnish. It doesn't take too much scrubbing. If the tarnish is stubborn then another ketchup bath might be required until the desired result is achieved. These still have a bit of tarnish in the nooks and crannies, which could be further scrubbed away, but I liked the overall effect, so I proceeded onto the final step.
If the finish isn't fully clean, you can repeat the process until it's as shiny as you like.
LAST STEP:
Once the hardware was dry I used a clear acrylic spray in a matte finish to re-seal the metal. (Affiliate link to similar product. I think I bought the Tree House brand shown in the photo at a local craft supply store.) I took the project outdoors for this step. The spray dries to the touch in about 2 minutes, although the instructions recommend letting it cure for 24 hours before putting it to regular use.
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