# Care and cleaning of brass jewelry

> General tips for the care and cleaning of brass jewelry: storage, gentle cleaning, home remedies and professional polishing.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/care-and-cleaning-of-brass-jewelry/
- Language: en
- Published: 2023-07-19
- Updated: 2023-07-21
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/cuidado-limpieza-joyas-laton/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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How to clean brass jewelry? General tips for the care and cleaning of brass jewelry

## How to clean brass jewelry?

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc commonly used in making jewelry. Here are some tips for the care and cleaning of brass jewelry:

![Steps to clean brass jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/care-brass.en.svg "Cleaning brass jewelry")

- **Proper storage**: Store your brass jewelry in a dry place free of moisture. You can wrap it in soft cloths or keep it in cloth bags to protect it from oxidation and contact with air.
- **Avoid contact with chemicals**: Brass can react with chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, cleaning products and chlorine. Avoid wearing your brass jewelry while applying chemical products, and clean it before putting it away.
- **Gentle cleaning**: To clean brass jewelry, you can use warm water and a mild soap. Dampen a soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush in the soapy water and rub the piece gently to remove dirt and residue. Then rinse well with clean water and dry the piece completely.
- **Avoid over-rubbing**: Brass is a relatively soft metal, so it is important to avoid rubbing too hard, since you can scratch or damage the surface of the piece. Be gentle and use soft circular motions when cleaning your brass jewelry.
- **Home remedy with lemon and salt**: If your brass jewelry is stained or has oxide marks, you can use a home remedy by mixing lemon juice and salt. Make a thick paste with these ingredients and apply it to the piece. Let it work for a few minutes and then rub gently with a soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush. Rinse well and dry the piece completely. (home technique)
- **Metal polish**: It can be used with a cloth to restore shine. (home technique)
- **Professional cleaners**: If you have very valuable or antique pieces, it is advisable to take them to a professional jeweler for specialized cleaning. They will have the knowledge and the right tools to care for and clean your jewelry safely.
- **With a Dremel**: The piece is polished using a polishing attachment. (workshop technique)
- **With a brass wire brush or a green kitchen scouring pad**: Rub the piece dry with the brush or pad for a surface polish, cleaning it and giving a matte finish with a circular or streaked texture depending on how we do it. (workshop technique)
- **Lacquering or sealing**: If you want to keep the shine and original look of your brass jewelry for longer, consider lacquering or sealing it with a clear coat. This will help protect the brass from oxidation and minimize the need for frequent cleaning.

Remember that brass can develop a patina over time, which gives it an aged and unique look. If you prefer to keep the patina, simply clean it gently to remove dirt and residue, but avoid over-polishing it. If you have very valuable or antique brass jewelry, it is advisable to seek professional advice on how to care for it properly.