What Can I Use to Polish a Bronze Lamp Base?

Clean With Soap and Water

• Start by reaching for some ordinary mild soap and water to clean away light dust and dirt. If the lamp hasn't developed a heavy patina, chances are good that a gentle scrubbing with a soapy solution of mild soap and water will be sufficient. Use a soft brush such as an old toothbrush to clean out crevices if the lamp base is intricately patterned. Wipe away soap suds with a cloth dipped in clear water, taking care not to let any of the soap or water seep into the wiring.

Common Household Cleaners

• In lieu of soap and water, several items commonly found in household pantries can make your lamp look like new. Mix together equal parts of flour and salt. Add in enough white vinegar to form a paste. Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and use a circular motion to apply it to the base of the lamp. Let it sit on the surface for approximately 30 minutes and then wipe it off with a cloth dampened in clear, warm water.

Commercial Polish

• Several commercial brands of bronze cleaner and polish are available, many of which are formulated to clean and polish brass and copper as well. Use these commercial preparations sparingly and follow the instructions to the letter. Repeated use of chemicals on your bronze lamp base can be hard on the metal. In general, natural household cleaners are gentler for cleaning and polishing bronze.

Polishing

• Once your lamp has regained its sheen, coat it with a thin layer of clear paste wax to protect it from air and dirt. Don't use automotive wax as it dries to a whitish color and may contain harmful ingredients. If you don't have any paste wax handy, regular olive oil will do. Makes sure the lamp base is completely dry and then pour a little wax or oil onto a soft cloth to gently buff the metal. Keep in mind that polished bronze should have a warm, diffuse glow rather than a brilliant shine.