Brass fruit bowls can be used as kitchen or dining room accessories to enhance the room’s appearance while serving a practical function. Brass has a warm, golden hue, which makes it look traditional and elegant. Nevertheless, brass can fade if it is not properly maintained or taken good care of over some time. Radhyaa brings you a few tips on properly maintaining your brass fruit bowl so it stays shiny and bright for many years.
Good Quality Bowl
Brass that has been produced from durable alloys will be more resistant to wear as compared to brass that has been produced from weaker alloys. Make sure that you have a brass bowl made with copper of not less than 60% and zinc of not less than 40% for the best brass. However, manufacturing and finishing of the product also contribute to the quality of a product. The sides of the bowl should be of equal thickness and the inner and outer surface of the bowl should be free from any roughness or unevenness. Avoid very thin brass that may feel weak or even wear unevenly even if it is brand new.
Clean Regularly
The most appropriate method of cleaning the brass fruit bowl is through gentle cleaning from time to time. Clean the interior and exterior of the bowl with a clean microfiber cloth after every use. This helps wipe off any fingerprints, condensation rings, fruit residue, and other debris from it before it forms tough-to-clean stains or corrodes into the metal surface.
In terms of maintenance, you should wash the bowl once every one to two weeks using warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Finally, apply an old toothbrush on the crevices and designs to remove any stubborn dirt or residue left behind. The skin must be washed very well after washing and dry with a clean soft towel.
Prevent Water Damage
It is also important not to expose the brass to a lot of water as it may affect the fruit bowl. After washing, it is important to drain as much water from the bowl as possible. It is also advised not to put the brass bowls in the dishwasher too. It must be noted that hot steam and detergent may gradually wear out brass when washed many times. Hand washing is best.
If any liquid gets on the outside of the bowl, be sure to dry the bowl as soon as possible. Prolonged exposure to moisture leads to the formation of rust on the brass material. It is advisable to dab the surface with a soft cloth to remove any excess product as soon as the application is done.
Polish to Prevent Tarnish
Although a good brass fruit bowl alloy with a minimum copper content of 60% will tarnish less than most other cheap brass mixtures, brass will oxidize with time and thus require polishing. This means they need to be polished quite often to avoid getting that dull and faded look which is not very desirable.
Always apply a polish that is meant for brass. Brass polish comes with mild abrasives and other components such as mineral oil and lemon oil to remove tarnish and corrosion. Massage the polish into brass surfaces with a soft cloth or brass polishing sponge/pad, gently applying some pressure. Keep on polishing until the surface is complete and shiny.
Coat with Protectant
For long-lasting shine, one should apply a thin layer of brass protective coating after cleaning the brass. Such choices as Renaissance Wax, Incralac, and Artichoke Wax include a clear, anti-tarnish layer that does not alter the appearance of the antique brass. Wipe gently using a soft cloth and make sure that you can reach all the corners and cracks. Let dry completely. Use it again after 3-12 months based on its usage.
Storage Tips
To keep your brass bowl looking its best between uses, follow these storage tips:
- Hand dry the bowl properly after washing it before storing it away making sure the underside is also dry.
- Coat in anti-tarnish cloth or bag to ensure that a conducive environment for oxidization by airborne corrosive gases is not realized.
- Keep it in a closed cupboard or container rather than on an open shelf.
- If displaying your bowl, do not expose it to direct sunlight in order not to develop UV damage in the long run.
Conclusion
If done gently and frequently, cleaning, polishing, and coating your quality brass bowl can retain its warm golden glow for years to come. Pay special attention to care, and your brass fruit bowl will be durable for everyday use without getting rusty and worn out. Follow these easy guidelines for brass care, then display your beautiful bowl as a much-beloved heirloom kitchen utensil. To buy the best quality brassware today, visit Radhyaa!
