I have some old brass candlesticks that I inherited from my grandmother after she passed away. They have a lot more sentimental than monetary value to me. What would be the best way to polish them using household ingredients?
I'm aware of Brasso (e.g., this answer), but am looking for something relatively natural to use. I have heard that you can accomplish this using ketchup, but have no idea how to do it. Any advice?
Best Answer
You can soak the candlesticks in vinegar, then scrub. If you want a little more aggressive treatment, dissolve some salt in the vinegar. That'll generate a little hydrochloric acid, which'll take the pH down a bit and clean more quickly. Some folks swear by a paste of vinegar, flour, and salt. I've never used that mix. I've never had to.