Option 1:
Natural acids such as vinegar and lemon juice can be used to clean or polish brass and copper.
Option 2:
- Step 1: Mix 2/3 cup vinegar and 2/3 cup flour in a glass bowl.
- Step 2: Add 1/2 cup salt and stir.
- Step 3: Spread on tarnished metal. Wait 1 to 2 hours.
- Step 4: Rinse, dry and polish with a soft cloth and a dab of olive oil.
Option 3:
Combine:
3 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon flour
enough white distilled vinegar to make a paste
Scoop the paste onto a clean sponge and polish clean. Rinse with hot water and buff dry with a soft cloth.
Option 4: Soak overnight in a solution of half white distilled vinegar, and half water. Rinse with hot water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Option 5: Cover item with catsup. Let stand for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly and dry.
Prevent tarnished brass: Rub with a cloth moistened with olive oil after polishing.
Remove lacquer: Submerge in boiling water with a few teaspoons each of baking soda and washing soda. Wear gloves. (Never use baking soda on aluminum, as it will pit the surface.)
Remove rust: Wet a sheet of aluminum foil with water. Rub just the rust with the wet foil. (Foil will scratch chrome.)