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How to Remove Bronze Tarnish and Pitting

Kaye Wagner

Bronze tarnishes when it becomes exposed to oxygen, water or any other material that will corrode it. Metal becomes pitted when it corrodes for a long time and actually develops small holes in its surface. Extensive pitting will completely ruin a piece of bronze metal beyond repair. If bronze has light pitting or tarnish, you can salvage it by using a homemade cleaning solution.

Remove Bronze Tarnish

Remove bronze hardware ibefore attempting to clean away tarnish or pitting.
  1. Mix 1 tbsp. salt with 1 tbsp. white distilled vinegar.

  2. Rub the salt paste over the surface of the bronze to remove the tarnish. Rub over the entire piece with a clean cloth until the tarnish is gone.

  3. Rinse the bronze with clear water and dry it completely with a clean cloth.

Remove Bronze Pitting

  1. Brush the bronze gently with a stiff-bristled brush until the bronze area appears smooth.

  2. Rinse the bronze with clear water.

  3. Place the bronze in distilled water so that it is completely submerged. Let it soak for 10 to 15 days until it is completely clean.

  4. Remove the bronze and dry it with a clean cloth.