As with most materials, keeping bronze clean will have many benefits. Not only will it look nice if it is on display, but keeping it clean and polished will often enable a longer lifespan.
However, with a shiny and polished finish, you want to make sure that you don’t damage its appearance when cleaning the metal.
With 30 years of experience working with all types of metals, MG Metals know the best way to clean and polish bronze to keep it looking brand new. In this blog, we share our step-by-step process you can easily follow.
Why Does Bronze Need Cleaning and Polishing?
Over time, bronze naturally loses its shine because it reacts with substances in the air and water. This reaction causes a layer of tarnish to develop over the metal. Don’t worry though, as it can easily be removed so you can restore the metal’s appearance to its original state, but if done incorrectly, you could cause irreparable damage.
A regular clean using the steps below will ensure that no matter where your bronze is, it will keep its glossy finish.
Materials and Equipment Needed
You won’t need to use any harsh chemicals when cleaning the bronze, but it might be worth investing in gloves and an apron or overalls to cover your clothing when polishing the metal. This will protect your clothing and skin from the polish, saving you any concerns about not being able to remove it from your clothes or your hands.
You will need the following equipment and cleaning materials:
- Natural dish soap
- Microfiber cloths
- Water
- Bowl
- Olive oil or mineral oil
It is important that you have a soft, non-abrasive cloth on hand for this. Any harsh clothes are likely to scratch the bronze, causing other damage.
Cleaning Bronze
Cleaning bronze doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the simpler the better for this metal.
- Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water in a bowl.
- Run a dry microfibre cloth over the bronze to remove any layers of dust that may have settled.
- Gently wipe the entire bronze surface with a microfiber cloth or sponge dipped in the soapy water solution.
- Wipe the surface of the bronze with a damp cloth to ensure you don’t leave any soapy residue on the surface.
- Pat dry with a dry microfibre cloth.
Polishing Bronze
Similarly to cleaning bronze, polishing the metal is simple.
Add a small amount of mineral or olive oil onto a dry microfibre cloth. Gently rub this onto the surface of the bronze, using small circular motions. Make sure that you cover the entire surface, not leaving any areas untouched as this will show once you have finished.
Once you have covered the surface with the oil, wipe off any excess.
Maintaining the Polished Finish
Dust is likely to settle on the surface of your metal, and while this won’t damage the bronze, it can make it look dull.
Dusting the surface will only take a few minutes, so it is advised that you frequently do this to maintain the polished look.
For this, all you need to do is run a dry microfibre cloth over the metal’s surface.
Additionally, you can add a protective wax or lacquer to preserve the polished finish and prevent tarnishing.
Metal Experts On Hand
The team at MG Metals are experts in a range of metals and know how to look after each type.
Bronze has a wide range of uses across many sectors, with each industry having different needs for the metal. Our experts understand the differing needs and can offer assistance regardless of whether you are working in aerospace, construction, defence or transport.
We are able to offer advice and guidance on cleaning and polishing bronze, aluminium, stainless steel, galvanised steel, mild steel, brass and copper.
Contact our team on 01794 521070 for help. Or complete our online contact form to request a callback with one of our specialists.