Brass spoons can be used as kitchen or dining utensils and also as decorative items for your kitchen or dining room. The warm, golden shine of brass flatware is evocative of classic elegance and would add a touch of class to any table. Although brass is a durable material, it is also subject to decolorization if not well maintained. This article by Radhyaa will provide the necessary steps on how to clean and maintain your brass spoon set so that it retains its good looks for quite a long time.
Polishing Brass Spoons
Brass spoon set requires proper polishing to maintain their appearance of being new all the time. Discoloration takes place when brass comes into contact with sulfur or any other material in the environment and the end product is a dull surface. Polishing does this by removing this outer layer of tarnish to expose the bright layer of the metal underneath.
Supplies Needed
You will need a few supplies on hand to properly polish your brass spoon set:
- Brass polish - It is essential to use a good polish made especially for brass products. Choose a formula containing active substances such as zinc, ammonia, or lemon oil that dissolve tarnish.
- Soft cloth – A scrap of an old T-shirt or any soft fabric with microfiber is best for cleaning. Be careful and do not use cloths or fabrics that will scratch the brass when cleaning it.
- Toothbrush – The bristles are ideal for applying the polish to engraved sections and features.
Polishing Steps
Follow these steps every few weeks or as soon as you notice tarnishing:
- Rub a small quantity of brass polish on the soft cloth which should be about the size of a dime.
- Use circular motions with the polish and spread it over the surface of the spoon in the direction of the grain. Add more as needed.
- The toothbrush should be utilized to work the polish on finer details and engravings.
- Wash off the skin with warm water and gently blot it with a clean piece of cloth.
- Wipe with a brand-new piece of cloth for that extra shine that you have been looking for.
Storing Brass Spoons
One other important factor that must be considered if you are seeking to retain your brass collection is preservation. Tarnishing is a process that can be accelerated by some materials and conditions.
Recommended
It’s best to store brass spoon set in a way that limits exposure to air, moisture, and sulfur:
- Place in air-tight containers or plastic bags preferably zip-lock bags.
- Place in anti-tarnish clothes or paper.
- Stack spoons in drawer dividers or slotted cutlery trays in such a manner that the spoons do not come into contact with one another.
- Keep it in a cabinet to avoid exposure to heat, humidity, and rubber bands which are normally sulphurised.
Avoid
Try to avoid these common storage mistakes:
- The problem with mixing spoons is that it results in scratches which spoil the shiny surface of the cutlery.
- Storing the items in areas which has porous material like wood, cardboard or fabric leads to corrosion.
- It rusts easily due to exposure to moisture and salty coastal air which leads to oxidation and pitting.
This means that between uses, your brassware stays in the best possible condition, and the maintenance is kept to a minimum.
Cleaning Brass Spoon Sets
Although polishing and storing techniques are centered on the brass, the spoons should nonetheless undergo routine washing, even when they are to be used for serving food. Damage may also be incurred from stains and dirt caused by food and grease that may otherwise degrade the set.
- Hand Washing: For general cleaning hand washing is the most effective. Warm water with mild dishwashing soap washing with a soft cloth or nylon brush. These are required to be rinsed and hand-dried as soon as possible.
- Soaking: For stuck-on food, rinse it with warm water containing a spoonful of baking soda or lemon juice to loosen the residue before washing it. Do not let brass remain immersed for long which is detrimental to the surface finish.
- Machine Washing: Do not immerse brass spoons for washing in the dishwasher since this results in denting and pitting of the metal from constant scrubbing by detergents. Heat is also a factor that causes wear and tear of these metal vessels at an alarming rate. Wash these delicate items by hand instead.
- Lacquered Sets: Some of the less costly brassware has a transparent lacquer that can offer some protection against abrasion and such pieces can be safely washed. Before using lacquered brass, read the manufacturer’s guidelines and avoid washing it in the dishwasher.
Conclusion
It would be quite complicated to take proper care of a valuable set of spoons made of brass. However, if one follows the steps mentioned here on how to polish, store, and clean such spoons, it will not be difficult. With a few minutes of daily maintenance, your brassware will remain shiny and sparkling for years of exquisite dining. Preserve your heirloom brass spoons so that the next generation inherits the utensils and values associated with them. To buy brass spoon set or other products now, visit Radhyaa!
