Learn how to easily clean and maintain brass utensils, pooja items and vilakku at home using a simple homemade cleaning solution. A quick video tutorial to show how old brass can be restored to a clean, natural shine without harsh chemicals.
I recently acquired an heirloom Idli Steamer that is at least 100 years old, passed down from my paternal great grandmother, and it was the most beautiful piece of brassware I had ever seen. The craftsmanship was simply unmatched, as it was completely handmade and incredibly detailed. To own and use something that my ancestors once used feels like a huge blessing. However, since it had been out of use for many years, the brass had lost its shine and looked quite dull. So, I took it upon myself to bring it back to glory.
Why Homemade Cleaning Solution
I did not want to use any chemicals that could damage it, so I resorted to using the homemade cleaning liquid that my dad prepares for my mom to clean her brass pooja items. It is mild, odorless, gentle on skin and yet, very effective. I wanted to test if it could work on my antique brassware as well as it does on Amma's pooja items and vilakku. And to my surprise it did.
With pooja items we normally tend to use tamarind or lemon wedge to scrub the surface. As these brass utensils were very old and had not been maintained for many years, I had to scrub harder and use a metal brush but nevertheless the homemade cleaning liquid worked its magic. You can prepare this liquid ahead of time, store it in an airtight plastic container for upto a month if making in large quantities.
Key Ingredients
The simple homemade cleaning solution for cleaning brassware is made using basic kitchen ingredients. You can double or triple the quantities without changing the ratios.
- 2 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- Juice from ½ Lemon Wedge
- ¼ cup Vinegar
- 2 teaspoon Dishwash Liquid
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the cleaning solution by mixing 2 teaspoon Baking Soda, 1 teaspoon Salt, Juice from ½ Lemon Wedge, ¼ cup Vinegar and 2 teaspoon Dishwash Liquid.
- You can either use a lemon wedge (fresh or used) or tamarind to scrub the surface of the brass vessel using the cleaning liquid.
- For pooja items and brassware that are in good condition, maintained well gentle scrubbing is sufficient. For restoring old brassware, it is recommended to use a heavy-duty scrubber or metal brush.
- Soak the brassware in the cleaning liquid for a few minutes to loosen stubborn grime before scrubbing it clean.
- Wash thoroughly in running water and immediately pat the brassware dry to prevent water marks. Allow to air dry in room temperature and store them in a dry place wrapped in soft cloth bag.
How to remove Black Marks from Brassware
If there are black marks on the brassware that refuses to leave, apply a thick paste of tamarind pulp and salt or vinegar and salt for a few minutes and then scrub it with a toothbrush. Another option is to use white (non-gel) toothpaste in the affected areas to clean it effectively. If everything fails, you can use a mild brass cleaner as last resort. To prevent damage to the brassware, always dilute it to a thin paste and use a toothbrush to scrub off the grime.
How to Restore Old Brassware Video Tutorial
I would be delighted to know if you have tried this, don't forget to provide your rating and do share your comments below. If you have any questions, you can always e-mail me! I am also available on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter 🙂
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