Q&A for How to Clean Metal

Use a little bit of olive oil or ketchup to shine your brass item after you’ve cleaned and polished it. Just dab some onto a cloth and lightly rub it all over the brass.

Avoid using steel wool or anything similar on your aluminum goods—you may be tempted to scour stuck on food, but doing so could permanently damage the item.

You can clean these the same way you would clean any other metal. However, you probably want to be careful if they're old or delicate and you don't want to damage them. Do a spot test with vinegar on a small, inconspicuous area. Avoid using polishes, which are abrasive and could damage the metal.

Undiluted white vinegar should do the trick. Be careful using vinegar if the surface is stainless steel, however. A baking soda and water paste would work better for that. If you're using the paste, simply cover the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes or until the paste has dried, then wipe it off.

Start by dusting the gate with a soft brush to remove loose dirt and cobwebs. For the grimy build-up, mix a mild detergent with warm water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge in the solution and wring out excess water to avoid soaking the metal. Gently clean the gate, paying special attention to intricate filigree work. Use a soft-bristled brush for hard-to-reach areas, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Rinse the gate with a damp cloth dipped in clean water, then dry thoroughly with a soft towel to prevent rust.

To remove oxidation from a purse chain, first identify the metal type, as different metals may require specific cleaning solutions. Start with a mild soap and warm water solution, using a soft cloth or brush to gently scrub the chain. For more stubborn oxidation, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it gently with a soft brush. If oxidation persists, soak the chain in white vinegar for a few hours to dissolve it.

Start by dusting with a soft brush or cloth. If it's made of metal, use warm water and mild detergent for cleaning. For stubborn spots, use a non-abrasive cleaner suitable for the metal type.

Start by wiping the steel with a clean, dry cloth to remove loose particles or dust. Next mix warm water with mild detergent to clean the surface thoroughly. Use a sponge or cloth to apply the solution, gently scrubbing to remove stubborn dirt or grease. For rust spots, apply a paste of baking soda and water with a soft brush, scrub gently, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.