How to Clean Oxidation from Brass or Copper Lamps

Oct 07, 2024

Oxidation appears as tarnish (greenish or dark spots) on brass or copper. Here’s how to clean it:

Materials You'll Need:

Make a cleaning paste:
- Mix lemon juice or vinegar with salt to form a paste. Salt acts as a mild abrasive, and the acid from the lemon or vinegar will help dissolve the tarnish.
Apply the paste:
- Rub the paste gently onto the oxidized areas using a soft cloth. Be sure to move in small, circular motions to avoid scratching the surface.
Rinse with warm water:
- Once the tarnish starts to lift, rinse the area with warm water and wipe it clean with a cloth.
Use baking soda for additional cleaning (optional):
- If the lamp has stubborn tarnish, make a paste using baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Baking soda can help neutralize the acid from the vinegar or lemon juice while also gently scrubbing away any remaining tarnish.
Final polish:
- After cleaning, use a brass or copper polish to give your lamp a shiny finish. Follow the instructions on the product for best results.
Regular maintenance:
- To keep your brass or copper lamp looking good, clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution. For added protection, you can apply a thin coat of clear lacquer or wax to prevent further oxidation.

By cleaning oxidation using these simple household methods, your brass or copper lamps can be restored to their original shine!