Posted by DDH Staff on 7/24/2024 to Tips

Over time, the charm of brass door knobs can fade as they begin to tarnish and wear. While stainless steel knobs may require only a quick clean to regain their shine, restoring the brilliance of brass knobs demands a more thorough approach to door hardware restoration. But don’t worry – in this guide, we'll walk you through each step to bring back the luster to your door hardware and breathe new life into your space. Let’s get started!

  • Step 1: Assess Knob Type
    Before diving into the door hardware restoration process, it's important to determine whether your door knobs are solid brass or plated. A simple test using a strong magnet can reveal this information. Magnets are attracted to metal underneath plating but not to brass alloys. If your knob is plated and shows significant tarnishing, professional re-plating may be the best solution.

  • Step 2: Lacquer Removal
    The first step in restoring brass door knobs is to strip away any protective lacquer that may have been applied. Lacquer removal is crucial to allow for proper cleaning and polishing of the brass surface. Depending on the type of knob, different methods can be used. For solid brass knobs, use paint stripper or denatured alcohol to dissolve the lacquer. Apply the solvent to the knob and allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping away the softened lacquer with a clean cloth.

    For plated knobs, a mixture of baking soda and water can effectively strip away lacquer without damaging the plating. Boil a pot of water and add a tablespoon of baking soda. Submerge the knob in the boiling water and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the knob and rinse it with hot water. Wipe down the knob with denatured alcohol or paint stripper to remove any remaining lacquer residue.

  • Step 3: Washing the Brass
    Once the lacquer has been removed, it's time to tackle any built-up grime and corrosion on the brass surface. A mixture of vinegar and salt combined with gentle scrubbing can work wonders. For solid brass knobs, use 0000 steel wool to scrub the brass surface gently. The fine steel wool will remove dirt and corrosion without scratching the metal. For plated knobs, go for a softer approach by using an old t-shirt or shop rag to scrub the surface. Avoid abrasive materials that could damage the plating.

  • Step 4: Soak Treatment (If Needed)
    In cases where the door knobs are heavily tarnished, a soak treatment can help loosen stubborn grime and restore the brass to its former glory. However, you have to be careful not to prevent damage to the metal. Prepare a mixture of diluted ammonia by adding equal parts ammonia and water in a container. Submerge the tarnished knob in the ammonia solution and allow it to soak for a few minutes. Monitor the soaking process closely to prevent overexposure, as prolonged contact with ammonia can degrade brass. After soaking, remove the knob from the solution and immediately neutralize any remaining ammonia by rinsing it with diluted vinegar.

  • Step 5: Polishing the Brass
    With the brass cleaned and tarnish removed, it's time to polish the surface to a radiant shine. Selecting a high-quality brass polish is essential for achieving optimal results, Apply a small amount of brass polish to the surface of the knob using a soft cloth. Spread the polish evenly across the brass surface, ensuring full coverage. Allow the polish to dry completely before buffing it off with a clean cloth. Repeat the polishing process as needed until the brass shines brightly and all traces of tarnish have been eliminated. Learn more about how to clean door hardware on our blog.

  • Step 6: Reinstallation
    Once the restoration process is complete, reinstall the door knobs to enjoy their renewed beauty. Make sure that all of the pieces are securely fastened and properly aligned.

A Complete Guide to Restoring Dull Brass Door Knobs

Door hardware restoration is a rewarding endeavor that can breathe new life into your home's decor. By following these steps and taking proper care of your brass hardware, you can enjoy the timeless beauty and elegance of brass for years to come. With a little effort and attention to detail, your door knobs will shine brightly, welcoming guests with their renewed brilliance!