Instructions

• Step 1: Make sure brass isn't lacquered Make sure your brass isn't lacquered by checking for any discoloration where the lacquer has chipped—or by consulting a professional. You should not polish lacquered brass.
• Step 2: Wash brass Wash the brass, using mild soapy water and one of the cloths.
• Step 3: Put on cotton gloves Put on your cotton gloves to protect your fingers from the polish and the brass from the natural oils in your skin.
• Step 4: Dry brass completely Dry the brass completely with a clean, dry cloth.
• Step 5: Apply polish Apply polish to another cloth and polish the entire item.
• TIP: Use a toothbrush or small cotton swab to get to hard-to-reach areas.
• Step 6: Buff brass dry Buff the brass dry with a clean dry cloth and admire your shiny, shiny brass.
• FACT: The slang term "brass monkey" seems to have originated in 1857 with the phrase "It would freeze the tail off a brass monkey."

You Will Need

• Some tarnished brass
• Several clean cotton cloths
• A bowl of water mixed with a dash of mild soap
• A pair of cotton gloves
• And brass polish
• A toothbrush or cotton swab