How to Refinish Antique Brass

Place one garbage bag or a folded shower curtain on a table to protect the surface from spills. Work in an area that is well ventilated. Remove surface dirt with a brass or silver polishing cloth. Both types are effective on brass. Flip the cloth over once dirt is removed, and repeat.

Mix hot water and mild dish detergent in a large plastic bowl. Put on protective dishwashing gloves and place the bowl on top of the plastic bag. Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and wring it out.

Put a little extra foam from the soap onto the cloth after wringing, and wipe vigorously on the surface of the brass until stubborn dirt lifts. Use an old toothbrush on hard-to-get areas of brass, like decorative sections where there are ridges or ornately detailed designs. Repeat with a wet cloth to remove soap, and let it dry.

Mix the salt and vinegar in a half pint of hot water. Add flour, a half a cup at a time, until a paste is formed. The paste should be the consistency of pancake batter. Mix it with a spoon until the paste is well-formed. Apply it onto the brass in sections. Once the brass is completely covered in paste, let it set for a few minutes. Wash off the paste with hot soapy water. Remove the soap with a clean, wet rag. Dry the brass with a towel.

Smear Brasso onto a soft white cloth. The brass polish should be applied after the brass is fully cleaned and refinished. Brasso is a long-term polish that provides a coating, and also polishes and brings out the beauty of antique brass. Let it dry. Try not to get fingerprints on the newly refinished brass.