If your metal fixtures or belongings are starting to look tarnished, you don’t have to run out to the store for special chemicals. A few common household items can often work wonders.
5 Homemade DIY Metal Cleaners
1. Silver Polish
Plain toothpaste makes an excellent polish for removing tarnish and restoring luster. Gently scrub it in with a soft brush or cloth. Then, rinse and wipe clean.
2. Chrome Cleaner
Chrome is a metal often found on appliances and kitchen or bathroom fixtures, and shows build-up easily. Clean these metal pieces periodically with club soda or vinegar. Never use an abrasive. For problems like dried-on grease, use peppermint oil. For calcium (water) stains, rub with lemon juice.
3. Restoring Brass
Lemon can also be used to restore shine to brass. Antiques may develop a particular patina that gives them a dated look. To preserve that finish, use linseed oil. For tough residue, try soaking first in hot, soapy water. Other cleaning options include Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce.
4. Cleaning Bronze and Copper
A good way to clean bronze or copper is to rub with a mix of vinegar, grapefruit, or lemon juice, and a few drops of pine or cedar oil. Old items are liable to develop a greenish patina. To remove it, mix up a paste of citrus oil, salt, vinegar, and baking flour. Smear this over the greened metal and let dry. Once dry, rinse away and wipe clean. Copper-bottomed pots can be scrubbed clean with a mixture of salt and lemon juice.
5. Aluminum
While it’s resistant to corrosion, aluminum is also chemically reactive with products like washing soda found in some commercial cleaners. Use a mix of water, vinegar, and a few drops of citrus oil. For hardened grime, soak first in a mix of warm water and tomato juice.
For All Metal Needs, Contact Tampa Steel & Supply
When it comes to restoring metal surfaces, common household solutions are just one approach. We cover a wide variety of metal supplies and services. If you live in the Tampa, St. Pete, or Clearwater areas, don’t hesitate to call or stop by with any questions!
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Or Call Tampa Steel & Supply at (813) 241-2801