Cleaning and Lacquering Brass Brass ornaments and figurines require periodic cleaning and polishing to bring back that luster appearance they had when new. Brass loses its luster because of the natural process of tarnishing caused by moisture and other contaminates in the environment. Restoring brass requires periodic cleaning and polishing. The chore is not looked forward to with pleasure as it is time consuming and dirty. There is another alternative where you will nearly never have to polish your brass again, unless you think that the tarnish is a desirable patina that enhances its look. Brass used in candlesticks, plates, and other decorative figurines is a mixture of copper and zinc, usually with a composition of 30 to 35 % zinc and 65 to 70% copper. More expensive brass ornaments may include some amount of aluminum to reduce tarnishing. Brass is a relatively strong metal that has been in use for hundreds of years in industrial products and decorative ornaments. Brass items manufactured in the United States were frequently coated with a clear lacquer. This prevented tarnishing (corrosion) that reduces its functionality. Brass door knobs, candle sticks, and figurines were also treated with a coat of clear lacquer to reduce tarnishing and preserve their shinny appearance. The use of lacquer on decretive brass became a thing of the past as foreign manufactures got into the marked with cheaper manufacturing processes. Most decorative brass imported into the United States today does not have a lacquering finish coating, consequently they tarnish very quickly. This can be remedied very easily by applying a coat of lacquer yourself. It isn’t difficult and one standard spry can of clear lacquer will cover a lot of material. Before applying a lacquer finish to brass it should be thoroughly cleaned and polished to a high luster. After the items are thoroughly cleaned and dry arrange them in an area that is free of dust and is properly ventilated. Spray the items with a light coat of clear lacquer. To avoid running apply the lacquer in an even pattern moving the spray can nozzle in one direction only. If the lacquer begins to run use the edge of a paper towel to absorb (wick up) the excess. Let dry and enjoy not having to clean and polish your brass for many years.