Brass jewellery is a staple since its affordable, long-lasting and fashionable. It’s especially loved for its bright, golden shine that bears a close resemblance to real gold. However, unlike gold, brass easily becomes dull and tarnishes over time due to oxidization giving it a greenish colour. In a matter of weeks, your once shiny jewellery can look discoloured. Some people like this layer of tarnish since it adds colour and character.
For others, they consider this discolouration unattractive. The good news is that brass jewellery is easy to clean even from the comfort of your home. All you have to do is gather some household ingredients and start cleaning. Here are some effective ways you can clean your brass jewellery once you notice a change in colour.
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Toothpaste
Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that are effective in removing tarnish from brass jewellery. However, it’s important to use the right toothpaste to avoid damaging the surface of your jewellery. A plain, non-gel toothpaste will do the trick.
Method
Apply a thick layer of toothpaste on your brass jewellery. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Wipe the toothpaste using a soft cloth then rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
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Vinegar
Vinegar is one of the most effective ways to remove tarnish from brass jewellery. It’s a natural cleaner and is commonly used to clean different surfaces in the home. Its acidity reverses the oxidization process which restores the shine of the brass jewellery.
Method
Soak the tarnished jewellery in vinegar for a few minutes. Remove the jewellery then rinse it off with water. Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge.
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Ketchup
Ketchup or tomato paste works as well as vinegar since they also have a high acidic content. They also contain vinegar and salt which are effective in breaking down tarnish. Most households have tomato paste or ketchup in their pantry which makes them a reliable way to clean brass jewellery.
Method
Put a small amount of ketchup on your brass jewellery and spread it with your finger. Leave it for an hour then wipe it clean with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.
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Lemon Juice
Depending on how discoloured your brass jewellery is, lemon juice can be effective in cleaning them. The mild acidity is particularly gentle on the jewellery. Therefore, if you’re cleaning small pieces, this method is ideal.
Method
Slice half a lemon and cover it with salt. Rub the lemon slice on the brass jewellery and squeeze to remove the juice. Keep rubbing until you notice a change in colour. Rinse the jewellery with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
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Soap And Water
Before trying other methods, you can try using mild soap and water to clean your brass jewellery. This polishes the jewellery and removes the dirt without removing the tarnish. It’s especially ideal for people who like the discoloured look but want to keep their jewellery clean.
Method
Add a few drops of mild dish soap to warm water and mix. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and use circular motions to clean the jewellery. Rinse thoroughly in warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
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Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful cleaner that removes buildup with ease. It gives you an easy, cheap and stress-free way to clean your brass jewellery. Additionally, it’s mild so you don’t have to worry about damaging your jewellery.
Method
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with the juice of one lemon in a small bowl. Rub the paste on the jewellery and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
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