The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

So, I tried out some more natural cleaning products to clean some of my brass hardware. Mild soap and warm water, toothbrush, salt and white vinegar, and 0000 steel wool. I know, products like: baking soda and lemon juice made as a paste can work well, so can ketchup. Go figure on that one? I'm sure a lot of people on here have tried some of these tricks too clean hardware on their phonographs? I have also heard of people using Goop to clean the wood. Although, I still use Old English Lemon oil on my wood cabinets. Unless someone else has other suggestions.

A lot of the man made products like Tarn- X and Braaso and Wright's Sliver cream tend too produce harsh odors and need too be done outside, or in a well ventilated, area. Tarn-X produces Sulfur gas when used.


Anyway, these worked for me.

Paul

I have never tried this, but it was a suggestion from a fireman that I knew. He said they cleaned brass at the fire station with Kool Aid (no sugar) mixed with water and dipped the pieces for a period of time...

Well, try it out, and let me know?

I've had some luck with table salt and vinegar. As long as there is no oil, grease, or wax. it will brighten it up, neutralize with baking soda, and then do a final buffing to polish.