How to Clean Brass Fittings

How to Clean Brass Fittings
Written By
Josh Arnold
Josh Arnold
Published: May 22, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Step 1

Fill a bowl with hot water and mix in a few drops of a mild dish-washing liquid until it bubbles. Place the brass pipe fittings into the bowl and allow them to sit in the soapy solution for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Clean both the inside and outside areas of the fittings using a 1-inch brass fitting brush, which is made of carbon steel wires. Gently scrub away deposits.

Step 3

Place the fittings in the soapy water again to remove any loose debris. Rinse the fittings in clear water to remove any soap residue.

Step 4

Dry the brass fittings thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth, which will not only absorb moisture but will also restore luster and shine.

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Step 5

Remove any tarnish on the brass fittings by combining equal parts of table salt, white flour and distilled white vinegar in a bowl. Rub the paste into the fittings and allow them to sit for up to an hour, depending on the severity of the tarnish. Rinse the fittings with clear water and dry and buff them with the microfiber cloth.

Tips

You can also polish the fittings with a specialty brass cleaner for extra shine if you'd like. Don't touch the brass with your bare hands until after the polish is completely dry to avoid tarnishing it.

Photo Credits

Steve Gorton/Dorling Kindersley RF/Getty Images

Josh Arnold

Josh Arnold has been a residential and commercial carpenter for 15 years and likes to share his knowledge and experience through writing. He is a certified journeyman carpenter and took college-accredited courses through the Southwest…

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