Restore brass fixtures in your home by removing old lacquer properly.
Lacquer protects the surface on brass and it helps prevent the brass from tarnishing. Lacquer appears clear and gives brass a shiny appearance. Eventually the lacquer will peel, crack or break down. The old lacquer needs to be removed before you can place a new coat of lacquer onto the brass. The use of harsh abrasives and cleaners can scratch and ruin the brass, so the lacquer needs to be removed carefully. Commercial brass lacquer removers often are expensive and contain harmful chemicals. Remove the lacquer with items you have around your home for best results.
Instructions
Baking Soda
1. Combine 1 tbsp. of baking soda with 1 quart of water in a saucepan. Increase this ratio until you have enough solution to cover the brass completely.
2. Bring the baking soda solution to a full boil on the stove top. Place the brass into the boiling water to cover it completely. Allow it to boil for 10 to 15 minutes until the lacquer peels off the brass.
3. Remove the brass from the boiling water with tongs. Carefully rinse the brass off with hot water to prevent burning your hands.
4. Soak a cotton ball with acetone. Rub the cotton ball on the brass to remove any remaining lacquer.
5. Rinse the brass under warm water. Dry it with paper towels.
Rubbing Alcohol
6. Soak a washcloth with rubbing alcohol. Remove the excess alcohol from the washcloth so that it remains damp.
7. Rub the washcloth over the brass to remove the lacquer.
8. Rinse the brass under warm water to wash away the peeled lacquer. Dry the brass off with paper towels.
