How to Take Care of Brass
All brass that does not have a varnish or lacquer must be polished from time to time—just like fine silver. It’s a simple process and should never deter you from purchasing unlacquered brass.
Jefferson Brass Company has long championed a “living finish”—an unlacquered surface that develops character over time. You can polish when you prefer a brilliant shine, or let it age naturally for a warm, antique look. When you purchase a Jefferson Brass piece in a polished finish, it is unlacquered and will need occasional care to maintain its rich glow.
You’ll know it’s time to polish when the surface begins to darken or lose its original luster, taking on a deeper golden tone.
How to Clean Brass
1. Choose a high-quality metal polish.
Our preferred products are Wenol and Wright’s Copper Cream—that’s right, copper cream (not Wright’s Brass Cream!). Each Jefferson Brass piece contains a high copper content, and this gentle yet effective formula restores the original brilliance without harsh abrasives. Other premium polishes made for brass or copper will also work well, but Wright’s Copper Cream consistently delivers exceptional results.
2. Apply with a soft cloth.
Use an old, soft cotton T-shirt and follow the directions on the polish container.
3. Buff to a shine.
Wipe clean and buff dry with another soft cotton cloth. Brass is a relatively soft metal, so avoid rough fabrics or paper towels that could cause scratches.
4. Removing candle wax.
Soften wax with hot tap water, gently remove it with a soft sponge or your fingernail, then wash the area with warm, soapy water before drying thoroughly.
How Often to Polish
Indoor pieces that are rarely handled usually need polishing three or four times a year, depending on humidity and air quality. Exterior pieces—such as door knockers—may need monthly polishing to maintain their bright, mirror-like finish.
How to Tell if Brass is Lacquered
To determine whether a brass piece is lacquered, apply a small amount of metal polish to an inconspicuous area with a soft cloth.
- If the cloth turns dark or black, your piece is unlacquered and safe to polish.
- If there’s no color transfer, stop immediately—your piece is lacquered, and metal polish could damage the protective coating.