How to Clean & Restore Bronze

Bronze, a metal alloy composed chiefly of various proportions of copper and tin, has been used to create architectural accents, objects, decorations, commemorative plaques and other artifacts for centuries. Over time, bronze naturally develops a grayish-green patina, tarnishing wherever it is exposed to moisture and air. Many people prize such a patina. However, it is easy to clean bronze back to its original golden color, or to remove surface dirt or lime deposits with soap and wax.

Unscented liquid Castile soap
Distilled water
Bucket
Toothbrush
Clean rags
Inert paste wax
Soft-bristle brush

Instructions

- 1
  Mix a solution of liquid Castile soap and distilled water in a bucket in a ratio of approximately three parts soap to 10 parts water.
- 2
  Dip a clean rag into the solution and wipe the bronze object to remove any surface dirt and grime.
- 3
  Scrub small areas, cracks or raised details with a toothbrush that is wet with the soap/water solution.
- 4
  Wet a second clean rag with plain distilled water and wipe off all traces of the soap solution.
- 5
  Dry the object completely with a new, dry, clean rag.
- 6
  Apply some paste wax to a soft-bristle brush.
- 7
  Buff the paste wax onto the bronze's surface.
- 8
  Allow the wax to set on the surface for six to 12 hours (check the manufacturer's instructions for additional information).
- 9
  Wipe off the excess wax and polish the bronze with a clean, dry rag.

How to Clean an Old Formica Table

How to Freshen Up Upholstery

Furniture Care