Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and zinc is a highly reactive metal. Brass door handles and door furniture are therefore usually treated with lacquer and/or wax to maintain the shiny golden colour it’s known for.

The Atlantic Polished Brass Old English Ripon Solid Brass Reeded Mortice Knob on Concealed Fix Rose is a fine example of the classic polished brass look.

When zinc corrodes, this leads to a more mottled appearance, dull finish and pinkish or grey colour tones. There are some who actually like the antique-style appearance of aged brass. In fact, the Atlantic Antique Brass Old English Harrogate Solid Brass Mushroom Mortice Knob on Rose is designed to mimic this type of finish.

However, if you have a tarnished brass door handle and prefer the traditional polished brass finish, you’ll need to both clean and polish your brass door handles and door furniture.

Cleaning brass door furniture

There are many natural ways to clean brass with common, affordable household items. Ketchup, white vinegar, baking soda, and even yoghurt are all cheap and effective brass cleaning solutions.

You can try to remove tarnish with a shop bought brass cleaner, but they tend to require a bit more elbow grease! We recommend trying one or more of the natural brass cleaners listed below, before using your shop bought cleaner or polish to bring the brass to a brilliant shine.

Ketchup / tomato sauce

The acidity of the tomatoes, combined with the slight abrasiveness of ketchup’s salt content, is thought to be why this common condiment cleans brass so well. Simply apply a thin, even layer of the ketchup to your brass door handle, leave it on for ten minutes before gently wiping with a soft cloth. Remove any traces of tomato sauce with a rinse of warm water to prevent unwanted corrosion of your brass.

White vinegar and baking soda

It’s quite a smelly option, so we recommend following this method with a good soak in soapy water followed by a rinse and pat dry. Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda to form a paste. Rub the paste into the brass with an old toothbrush and leave on for 20 - 30 minutes before rubbing off the paste and rinsing thoroughly.

Lemon juice and baking soda

Use the same method as the vinegar and baking soda method above, however test the brass every 5 minutes or so. Lemon juice is highly acidic and you risk damaging the surfaces of some brass door furniture. Effective, but use with caution.

Yoghurt

The natural acidity of yoghurt is thought to be the reason why this works so well. Again, apply a thin layer of yogurt (plain, natural yoghurt or even sour cream work best) and leave to work for about ten minutes. Gently remove the yoghurt or sour cream with a cloth and rinse and dry well.

Restoring and maintaining shine

Branded brass polishes and cleaners are most effective when used very regularly to maintain the finish of brass items, or to restore a high shine after using a natural cleaner to remove tarnish.

Carefully apply a few drops of your chosen cleaner or polish to a clean cloth and gently wipe in small circular motions across the surface of the brass. Use another clean soft cloth to remove any trace residue.

Applying a lacquer or a wax to your cleaned and polished brass door furniture can help to protect it from being tarnished by the elements, however regular cleaning and polishing is still recommended.