How to Seal Brass Andirons

Clean the brass

• 1

  Read the ingredients on the container of brass cleaner. Non-acid based cleaners can be removed completely by washing with soap and water. Acid-based cleaners must be removed with a mixture of baking soda and water.

• 2

  Apply the brass cleaner according to the instructions on the product. Most can be applied with a soft cloth. Allow to stand as long as directed and wipe off the cleaner with another clean cloth.

• 3

  Remove remaining cleaner from the brass with soap and water, but after using an acid-based cleaner, rinse the andirons thoroughly with a baking-soda solution. Dry the andirons completely with a soft cloth, set them outdoors, apply a hair dryer, or set them in a low oven. Allow them to cool before preceding.

• 4

  Wipe off the last traces of cleaner, which may appear to be a slight haze on the brass, or white powder visible in and around engraved areas, with a solvent like denatured alcohol. Do not use rubbing alcohol. This final cleaning process should result in a polished finish.

Seal the Brass

• 5

  Apply a spray coating of metal sealant in a well-ventilated room, following manufacturer's directions for avoiding over-spray, runs, drips and other flaws in the coating. Allow to dry and check for unsealed spots or flaws that can be resprayed.

• 6

  Apply liquid sealant from a disposable aluminum pan with a clean white cloth or with foam brushes. Before beginning, saturate the applicator and wring or squeeze it so it does not drip. Avoid runs and drips by applying as smoothly as possible. With the cloth or brush, errors can be corrected easily.

• 7

  Allow the coatings to dry thoroughly before using the andirons or before re-coating them. Some manufacturers of sealants claim their protectants will remain intact for years, but a second or third coating may be helpful. The coated brass andirons may be cleaned with ordinary detergent and water.