Cleaning Old Window Hardware

Bring to a boil.

Cleaning old window hardware. Remove the hinge pin with a screwdriver or a cold chisel. If you use this method you need to wipe the hardware down very well otherwise you ll have a gummed up piece of hardware once it dries. Put on the lid and let the contents of the pot cook all night. After cleaning i like to give the hardware a good soak in boiled linseed oil.

The mild chemical reaction of vinegar combined with baking soda is what loosens the tarnish. Place the hardware in the crockpot. Always rinse the hardware with clean water. Next i took an old cloth that was a little damp and rubbed it around the hardware.

If you can t get it out with your hand use a hammer. Otherwise it s probably brass plated metal. If you are using vinegar and baking soda first brush the hardware with a layer of vinegar then sprinkle on baking soda. Every couple years they will.

Tap on the handle of the screwdriver with your hand. With the hardware fully wet sprinkle on a powdered cleaning product so the metal is completely covered. If the magnet doesn t stick the piece is solid brass and you can use a brass polish. Spray a rag with the vinegar solution until it is damp but not.

If you think the piece is brass hold a magnet up to it. Then i just rinsed it off and let it dry. Place the screwdriver or cold chisel under the edge of the head of the hinge pin. First i ran some water over the hardware then sprinkled the bar keeper s friend on.

A mild hand wash dish soap and water mixture can be used to loosen stubborn dirt. Clean carefully remove the hardware at least once a year for a good cleaning. Clean water should be used when possible to flush the hardware clean. Start with a gentle detergent and sponge.

Vinegar cleaning solution pour 1 2 cup distilled white vinegar and 1 2 cup water in a spray bottle and shake the bottle to mix. Place the old hardware and enough water to completely cover them and a generous squirt of dish soap in a pan. Don t use your favorite pan it s going to get disgusting. These pieces had some nooks and crannies so i took an old toothbrush to really get into those.

I prefer an old school method that i know some folks will disagree with but it works fine for me. The next day the paint will be soft and ready to fall off the metal.