How do I clean this?
by
Lenore
+8
I bought this old fireplace screen at a neighbors garage sale. There's a magnet in the photo, so it's not brass, but maybe brass finish? I've had really bad luck cleaning brass in the past, I want to get this right. If it's too far gone, what else can I do? Thank you
instead of stressing on cleaning it ,wipe off the best you can and spray paint it
If you are going to use it as a fireplace screen, I would suggest cleaning it and spray painting it flat black. If it's black it is not going to show where the fire chars it and it will not stand out as a fake brass item.
this pages tells you how to know if it's real or "fake" brass and how to clean both.
https://centsationalstyle.com/2012/02/brass-hardware-polishing-and-faking-it/
Spray paint it.
Use some Blue Dawn dishing washing liquid and baking soda to clean it. Then use Brasso to shine it up.
Clean it really with a good de-greaser such as dawn, or TSP using a scrub brush.
Rinse really well and let dry completely (prop it some where where the wind will help dry it) Look at your local hardware store, True Value, Lowe's, or Home Depot for a BBQ , high heat paint, it comes in black, silver, and brown. If you want a bright color go to your local Auto parts store and get high heat ENGINE paint. **REMEMBER TO USE REALLY LIGHT COATS on the screen part.. or you plug up all the holes.
Is there a specific type paint I should use? Due to the heat?
Use high heat or barbecue paint, after cleaning.
Brass cleans very well with ketchup. It takes ALOT of it and a little time but it will get it clean. And, possibly an oven cleaner of some sort.
Scrub with brillo / cleaner and a brush. Spray paint using heat proof paint made for grills and such.