Button Lovers Cleaning Metal
This section will cover different types of metal buttons including aluminum,
brass, gold, pewter, silver, stainless steel, steel, tin, Tombac, white metal,
yellow metal and zinc. If you don’t know the metal type view either white metal
or yellow metal sections. Click here to see the
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
Please view the CLEANING CAUTIONS
This section will cover all metal buttons including aluminum, brass, copper, gold, pewter,
silver, stainless stell, steal, tin, Tombac, white metal, yellow metal and zinc.
If the metal buttons contains any paint or enamel, please see
CLEANING BUTTONS WITH ENAMEL
NEVER submerge two or more-piece metal buttons into any type of liquid.
Many of them might have a cardboard disk in the center, which will absorb
water, and eventually destroy the button.
NEVER use Trisodium EDTA especially when not having experience with
this product. Trisodium EDTA is not typically used fjewelryor cleaning buttons or jewelry,
as it can damage some metal alloys and gemstones. Its powerful chelating properties
are utilized in industrial applications only.
CAUTION - All types of metal and polish tend to leave a
residue in the cracks and small areas, which is difficult to clean out.
These polish residues can cause more damage if not immediately removed. If you
use these products be prepared to do a lot of extra work.
To save time on scrolling, please click on one of the following:
ALUMINUM
Aluminum is a soft, light weight, and non-magnetic metal. It is resistant
to corrosion and rusting due to a natural oxide layer on its surface. Aluminum
can be anodized to produce a range of colors by the crafter. Aluminum is the
easiest metal to care for by cleaning with soapy water to restore its shine.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface.
Remember this is a soft metal.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect this soft metal. See Alternative
Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry thoroughly using a dry soft cloth.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a shining finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Jewelry Cleaner - Some jewelry cleaners are suitable for all metals, stones and gemstones.
Check the instructions for product usage to make sure.
Safe for gemstones. Be very cautious with home remedy.
Vinegar and water - Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
to create an acidic solution. Use a cloth to dip into the mixture and scrub the button.
Do not use this method if the button has gemstones, painting
or cold or heated enamel. Baking soda and aluminum foil - Line a tray with crumpled aluminum foil, place
the button on top, sprinkle with baking soda, and pour boiling water over it.
The tarnish will transfer to the foil. Do not use this method if the button has gemstones, painting
or cold or heated enamel. Salt - Salt is a safe abrasive that can clean aluminum, but be cautious and rub
carefully. Do not use this method if the button has gemstones, painting
or cold or heated enamel. Lemon juice - The acidic content in lemon juice can help restore aluminum's luster.
Do not use this method if the button has gemstones, painting
or cold or heated enamel. Ketchup - Ketchup contains vinegar, water, and acid, so it can be used to clean aluminum.
Put a small amount on a cloth and wipe the surface. Use an old or disposable rag because ketchup can stain.
Do not use this method if the button has gemstones, painting
or cold or heated enamel. Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Store your aluminum buttons in a cool, dry place within the box using silica gel
packets to prevent moisture-induced tarnish, and separate buttons with dividers to
prevent scratching and damage. The silica gel packets should not have direct contract
with any button.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
BRASS (No Enamel or Paint)
Brass is a metal alloy made mainly from copper and zinc along with other metals
such as lead, tin, or nickel to enhance certain characteristics and colorations.
The proportions of each metal can vary. However, brass is not durable to the elements.
Take a magnet and if it attracts go to the STEEL
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect delicate settings and patterns. See
Alternative Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the brass thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing. Any
water, acid, or abrasive left on the brass can cause uneven water marks
and splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Vinegar - Soak the button in a solution of equal parts water and white
vinegar for 30 seconds only.Do not use this
method if the button has gemstones, painting or cold or heated
enamel. Ketchup - The acid in the ketchup removes tarnish and dirt. You can
also soak small brass items in tomato juice for a short time.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Lemon Juice and Salt - The citric acid in a lemon breaks down tarnish,
while the salt acts as an abrasive. Rub the brass with a sponge filled
with lemon juice, sprinkle on salt, when needed.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice - For less severe tarnish make a paste of
2 tablespoons of baking soda and drops of lemon juice.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Brass Polish - Use a water-based brass polish to remove tarnish
and discoloration. Do not use this method
if the button has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Store brass in a cool, dry, and airtight place, ideally in individual soft
pouches or a lined and sectional box (like a jewelry box for example) to prevent
scratches and tarnish, and always ensure pieces are completely dry before
storing them.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
COPPER (No Enamel, Paint)
Copper is known for its reddish-brown color that has been used for centuries due
to its malleability, durability, and abundance. After prolonged exposure to the
elements, copper can fade to a darker, duller brown due to tarnishing also known
as patina.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur, which can scratch
or damage the copper.
Clean using damp cloth and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner solution
with mild pressure to protect delicate settings and patterns. See Alternative
Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the copper thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing. Any
water, acid, or abrasive left on the copper can cause uneven water marks
and splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Lemon Juice and Salt - Sprinkle salt onto a half-cut lemon and rub it
on the copper to remove grime and marks.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Vinegar and Salt - Dissolve salt in white vinegar and apply the
solution to the copper with a soft cloth. Rub until the tarnish is
gone. Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Ketchup - Ketchup can clean copper because it contains vinegar,
such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Baking Soda - Baking soda can restore the shine of dull copper buttons.
You can use it on its own or with lemon juice or white vinegar.
Do not use this method if the button
has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Commercial Copper Cleaners - You can use a commercial copper cleaner for
tougher stains. Do not use this method if
the button has gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing For copper, the best storage method is to keep it in a cool, dry, and dark
place away from moisture and other metals by using airtight containers like
individual plastic bags. The primary goal is to limit its exposure to oxygen
and humidity, which cause tarnish and discoloration. Silica gel packets will
absorb moisture and sulfur compounds that can also accelerate tarnishing.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
GOLD (No Enamel or Paint)
Gold buttons, as with their cousin counterpart jewelry, are made from a
variety of gold types, including 10 Karat, 14 Karat, 18 Karat, and 22 Karat gold.
The purest form of gold is 24 Karat, which is much too soft for buttons. Most
buttons are below 18K, which is alloyed with other metals, like silver, copper,
nickel, and zinc, to improve its strength and resilience. Gold plated or 14
Karat are more common in buttons. If the button is hallmarked and depending
on the country it originated, more information can be acquired.
Most gold plated buttons are not hallmarked. If it looks clean don’t clean.
Sparingly and infrequently is recommended for gold pieces including plated.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface.
Remember this is a soft metal.
Avoid using paper towels or tissues as they may contain fibers that could
scratch the surface of the gold.
Use only soft cloths or gold jewelry cloth for this purpose, which is
specifically designed for cleaning gold.
For intricate areas where dirt accumulates, gently employ a soft-bristled
brush.
If you encounter stubborn tarnish and it is without gemstones, consider
using a specialized non-abrasive liquid jewelry cleaner formulated
specifically for gold and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. See
Alternate tarnish remover.
Alternate Tarnish Remover Be very cautious with home remedy.
Baking Soda and Water
Create a paste by mixing a small amount of baking soda with water.
Apply the paste to the tarnished areas of your button using a soft cloth
or a cotton swab.
Gently rub the paste onto the tarnish until it begins to lift, being
careful not to scratch the gold.
Rinse the button with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free
cloth.
Lemon Juice and Salt
Mix equal parts lemon juice and salt in a small bowl to form a paste.
Apply the paste to your tarnished area with a soft cloth or cotton swab,
gently rubbing the mixture onto the tarnish.
Rinse the button thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft,
lint-free cloth.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Store gold separately in a cool, dry, dark place, like a lined box, to prevent
scratches and tarnish, using individual cloth pouches or airtight bags for items
with gemstones or white gold. Silica gel packets will absorb moisture, but need
to be changed periodically to stay effective.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
PEWTER (No Enamel or Paint)
Pewter is a soft metal, but tends not to tarnish like silver, copper or
brass buttons.
While some older pewter buttons might contain high lead content, it is
recommended that you safeguard yourself by using latex gloves for all pewter
buttons. Any materials you used to clean these buttons should be thrown
away and not used again.
If you're concerned about cleaning an older piece with a beautiful patina,
do a spot test to double-check that it won't remove too much of the living finish.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid abrasive cleansers. Don't use a stiff brush or abrasive pad, as
pewter is soft and can scratch easily.
Use hot water: Hot water can help remove grime and dirt more effectively.
Use a fine abrasive paste like Autosol for discolorations.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Use a mild ALUMINUM cleaner to enhance the brilliance of pewter.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Keep pewter away from harsh chemicals, including perfumes, lotions, and
cleaning products, as they can damage its surface and shine.
Store pewter in a cool, dry, dark place, wrapped in a soft, anti-tarnish
cloth or in a box with anti-tarnish lining (jewelry box) to protect it from
heat, chemicals, and light that can cause damage, warping, or discoloration.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
SILVER (No Enamel, Paint)
Like gold, silver had different grades. Most modern marks of 925 or “Sterling Silver”
are the most common. This means silver content is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals,
usually copper. The other metals make the silver harder and more durable. You might
find other silver marks and each country does have different standards. If you have a
piece that states 99.9 cautions should be given since this is very soft since it is
almost pure form of silver.
Silver plate buttons are not made of silver at all. In fact, it’s made of a base metal,
such as brass or copper that is then coated with a layer of sterling silver. Care is needed
to remove the layer with agresive cleaning.
All silver grades will be cleaned the same way unless the manufacture states
differently.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface.
Remember this is a soft metal.
Avoid using paper towels or tissues as they may contain fibers that could
scratch the surface of the gold.
Fill a bowl with warm water and mix in a few drops of Ivory Snow or Orvus
WA Paste Cleaner solution. See Alternative Cleaners below.
Place silver button in the suds mixture and let soak for up to five
minutes.
Use a soft bristle brush to clean any nooks and crannies.
Rinse under cold water.
Dry with a clean, soft and dry cloth.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Commercial Silver Jewelry Cleaner. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
Be very cautious with home remedy.
Windex and Hydrogen Peroxide. Be very cautious with home remedy, because it can take silver plating off.
Do not use this method if the button has gemstones,
painting or cold or heated enamel.
Combine half a cup of Windex® and half a cup of hydrogen peroxide in a bowl.
Soak your silver button for 15 to 20 minutes ONLY. Not for hours or over night.
Brush off any residue with a soft bristle brush.
Rinse silver under cold water.
Dry with a clean, soft and dry cloth.
Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil
Be very cautious with home remedy, because it can take silver plating off.
Do not use this method if the button has gemstones,
painting or cold or heated enamel.
Boil water.
Line a glass bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda per cup of water in the bowl; let it bubble.
Place the button on top of the aluminum liner in the bowl of bubbling water.
Soak for two to five minutes (or up to 10 minutes if needed). Not for hours or
over night.
Remove buttons from the hot water using a pair of tongs.
Rinse under cold water.
Dry with a clean, soft and dry cloth.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Store your silver buttons in an airtight container or anti-tarnish bag in a
cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight, heat, moisture, and chemicals,
to prevent tarnishing.
Separating individual pieces with soft, anti-tarnish-lined
pouches or a compartmentized box also helps prevent scratches.
Place silica gel packets or a piece of chalk in your storage container to
absorb any excess moisture.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
STAINLESS STEEL (No Enamel, Paint)
Stainless steel buttons are metal fasteners made from a chromium-iron alloy that
provides excellent corrosion and rust resistance, making these buttons durable.
Stainless steel buttons are a more affordable alternative to brass and are lighter
in weight. The metal can be used for snap buttons; also known as press studs or
poppers. A magnet might work or not depending on the grade of the stainless steel.
Recommend Cleaning Method Initially wipe the button with a jewelry polishing cloth.
All cream polishes tend to leave a residue in the cracks and small areas.
It is difficult to wipe out and is not recommended since the polish residue
can eat the metal surface if left there in the long term.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect delicate settings and patterns. Can use
a soft toothbrush for those hard-to-reach areas. See Alternative Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the steel button thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing.
Any water, acid, or abrasive left on the brass can cause uneven water marks
and splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Baking Soda Paste
Combine baking soda and a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
Apply the paste to the button and gently scrub it with a soft cloth or
soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the button thoroughly with warm water.
Dry it with a soft cloth.
Vinegar and Water
Mix warm water with a small amount of white vinegar.
Dip the button into the solution for a few minutes; no longer.
Rinse the button thoroughly with warm water.
Dry it with a soft cloth.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it Cleans,
Restores and Protects in one step.
Protecting and/or Storing Store stainless steel buttons in a cool, dry place, as high humidity
can accelerate tarnishing or corrosion.
Consider an airtight container placing silica gel packs or activated
charcoal sachets in them to absorb excess moisture and maintain a controlled
environment.
There should be no rust to be considered unlike steel buttons.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
STEEL (No Enamel, Paint)
Steel buttons are typically made primarily of iron with a high carbon content,
which are prone to rust and corrosion unlike their stainless steel counterparts.
A magnet can validate if the button is steel.
Caution should be taken concerning tinted steels
button using certain modern cleaners and polishes. which can remove the
color.
Recommend Cleaning Method Be gentle especially when it is not stainless steel.
Initially wipe the button with a jewelry polishing cloth.
Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur.
All cream polishes tend to leave a residue in the cracks and small areas.
It is difficult to wipe out and is not recommended since the polish residue can
eat the metal surface if left there in the long term.
If rusty, rub the area with the graphite from a number 2 pencil or an eraser
to remove it. Graphite is also a component in some commercial rust removers and
rust-inhibiting coatings, as it provides corrosion protection once applied to a
button. For the back and shanks you can use 000 steel wool to remove rust;
do not use on the front.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect delicate settings and patterns. Can use
a soft toothbrush for those hard-to-reach areas. See Alternative Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the steel button thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing. Any
water, acid, or abrasive left on the steel can cause uneven water marks
and splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Baking Soda Paste
Combine baking soda and a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
Apply the paste to the button and gently scrub it with a soft cloth or
soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the button thoroughly with warm water.
Dry it with a soft cloth.
Vinegar and Water
Mix warm water with a small amount of white vinegar.
Dip the button into the solution for a few minutes; no longer.
Rinse the button thoroughly with warm water.
Dry it with a soft cloth.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step.
Protecting and/or Storing For steel buttons that are not stainless steel, the main challenge is
preventing rust and tarnish, which result from exposure to air and moisture.
Your storage method should focus on keeping pieces dry and protected.
XStore your steel buttons in an airtight container or anti-tarnish bag in a
cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight, heat, moisture, and chemicals,
to prevent tarnishing.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
TIN (Tin Type)
While some older tin alloys contain lead, it is recommended that you keep
yourself safe by wearing protective gloves. Any materials you used to clean these
buttons should be thrown away outside after using them for this purpose. These
buttons tend not to tarnish.
Tin alloys may be called by other common names such as Britannia or Pewter Levalloy.
What is Tin Pest? Tin pest occurs when tin changes from its silvery metallic form to the brittle gray
form. Tin pest is also known as tin disease, tin blight and tin leprosy. Tin metal may
spontaneously decompose into a powder. White tin is stable at or above room
temperature; it is not in extreme cold. If this is happening to your button you need
to trash the button. There is nothing you can do.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid abrasive cleansers. Don't use a stiff brush or abrasive pad, as
tin is soft and can scratch easily.
Use hot water: Hot water can help remove grime and dirt more effectively.
Use a fine abrasive paste like Autosol for discolorations.
Restoring Method(s) Use a mild aluminum cleaner to enhance the brilliance of tin.
Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for
gemstones. Protecting and/or Storing Store tin in dry, airtight boxes, small tin cans, with anti-tarnish strips, using
soft cloth pouches for individual pieces to prevent scratches.
Avoid humid areas, direct sunlight, and keeping items in contact with each other.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
TOMBAC
Tombac button is a one piece button used from the 1750s till the early 1820s. Tombac
is a brass alloy with a high content of copper. tin, zinc and lead added for coloration.
Originally these would have had a pale yellow-white color. The shank of this button
was a length of copper alloy wire which was inserted into the mold as the button was
cast in a style called cast in boss. It is recommended that you keep
yourself safe by wearing protective gloves and throwing away them afterwards.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect delicate settings and patterns. See
Alternative Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the brass thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing. Any
water, acid, or abrasive left on the button can cause uneven water marks and
splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Use a mild aluminum cleaner to enhance the brilliance of tin.
Be very cautious with home remedy.
Vinegar - Soak the button in a solution of equal parts water and white
vinegar for 30 seconds only.Ketchup - The acid in the ketchup removes tarnish and dirt. You can also
soak small brass items in tomato juice for a short time.Lemon Juice and Salt - The citric acid in a lemon breaks down tarnish,
while the salt acts as an abrasive. Rub the brass with a sponge filled with
lemon juice, sprinkle on salt, when needed.Baking Soda and Lemon Juice - For less severe tarnish make a paste of 2
tablespoons of baking soda and drops of lemon juice.Brass Polish - Use a water-based brass polish to remove tarnish and
discoloration.Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for gemstones.
Protecting and/or Storing Store Tombac buttons in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
As like other metal buttons, keeping them separate is advisable by using
a lined box (jewelry box) with partitions or individual pouches to prevent
scratches.
Adding anti-tarnish strips or a silica gel packet to block moisture and sulfur.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
White metal is not a single alloy but a family of light-colored, silver-sheened
alloys, most commonly tin-based or lead-based, used for various purposes from
decorative items, jewelry, buttons, etc. Due to their attractive silver-like
appearance, white metals are used to make affordable buttons. Alloys used often
include tin, lead, antimony, and copper. Common synonyms for white metal include
britannia metal, babbitt metal, monkey pot, nickel silver and pewter.rong>
Recommend Cleaning Method Mix a Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner solution with warm, not hot,
water in a small bowl. See Alternative Cleaners below.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a soft cloth to gently scrub the metal,
paying attention to nooks and crannies.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to make sure all soap residue is removed.
Dry the button thoroughly using a dry soft lint free cloth.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Baking Soda Paste
Make a paste of baking soda and water.
Gently rub it onto the tarnished area with a soft brush.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to make sure all paste residue is removed.
Dry the button thoroughly using a dry soft lint free cloth.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for gemstones.
Protecting and/or Storing Store Tombac buttons in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
As like other metal buttons, keeping them separate is advisable by using
a lined box (jewelry box) with partitions or individual pouches to prevent
scratches.
Adding anti-tarnish strips or a silica gel packet to block moisture and sulfur.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
Yellow metal is a term referring to yellow-colored, copper-based alloys like
brass, primarily composed of copper and zinc, valued for their strength, durability,
and corrosion resistance.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or sulfur.
Clean using damp cloth hot water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA Paste Cleaner
solution with mild pressure to protect delicate designs. See Alternative
Cleaners below.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry the brass thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to avoid tarnishing. Any
water, acid, or abrasive left on the brass can cause uneven water marks
and splotches.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Be very cautious with home remedy.
Vinegar - Soak the button in a solution of equal parts
water and white vinegar for 30 seconds only.
Do not use this method if the button has
gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Ketchup - The acid in the ketchup removes tarnish and dirt. You can also
soak small brass items in tomato juice for a short time.
Do not use this method if the button has
gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Lemon Juice and Salt - The citric acid in a lemon breaks down tarnish,
while the salt acts as an abrasive. Rub the brass with a sponge filled
with lemon juice, sprinkle on salt, when needed.
Do not use this method if the button has
gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice - For less severe tarnish make a paste of 2
tablespoons of baking soda and drops of lemon juice.
Do not use this method if the button has
gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Brass Polish - Use a water-based brass polish to remove tarnish and
discoloration.
Do not use this method if the button has
gemstones, painting or cold or heated enamel. Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it Cleans,
Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for gemstones.
Protecting and/or Storing Store Tombac buttons in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
As like other metal buttons, keeping them separate is advisable by using
a lined box (jewelry box) with partitions or individual pouches to prevent
scratches.
Adding anti-tarnish strips or a silica gel packet to block moisture and sulfur.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
ZINC
Made from zinc alloy, which includes a blend of zinc and other metals,
such as aluminum. These buttons are often found on heavy-duty fabrics like
denim jeans and coats due to being known as the heaviest type of metal button
and sturdiness. They can be plated to achieve a range of finishes like antique
gold or brushed nickel.
Recommend Cleaning Method Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia.
Gently wipe away dust and dirt with a dry or damp cloth and warm water.
For tougher grime, use a solution of warm water and Ivory Snow or Orvus WA
Paste. See Alternate Cleaning Methods.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to prevent white rust and water spots.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Alternate Cleaning Methods Specialized zinc metal polish and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
Be very cautious with home remedy.
White Vinegar
Mix a diluted solution of white vinegar and water.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Dry thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to prevent white rust
and water spots.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Verdigris (Green Corrosion)
Mix 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water.
Using a soft brush or cotton swab to remove the verdigris.
Rinse thoroughly.
Dry thoroughly using a dry soft cloth to prevent white rust and
water spots.
Buff the button by using a dry soft cloth for a glistening finish.
Restoring Method(s) Renaissance Micro Crystalline Polish Wax (5) - (time saver) since it
Cleans, Restores and Protects in one step. Safe for gemstones.
Protecting and/or Storing Store yellow metal buttons in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
As like other metal buttons, keeping them separate is advisable by using
a lined box (jewelry box) with partitions or individual pouches to prevent
scratches.
Adding anti-tarnish strips or a silica gel packet to block moisture and sulfur.
Table of Content of Cleaning Metal
Back To Table of Content by Material
References
(1) Renaissance Micro-Crystalline Wax Polish works on wood; raw & finished. Leather, Parchment &
Paper. Metal; Silver, Silverplate, Gold, Copper & Copper Alloys (Bronze, Brass, Tin, Zinc, German
Silver, Nickel), Lead & Pewter, Iron & Iron Alloys, Tin & Tin Alloys. Damascus; Stone, Marble,
Onyx, Limestone, Granite, Brick, Tile, Terrazzo, Obsidian, Alabaster; Gems, Glass, Porcelain,
Holloware, Bone, Ivory, Horn, Shell & Mother-of-Pearl, Gutta Percha, Dammars; Gilding & Gold Leaf,
Patinas. Enamel, Lacquer, Japanning, Cloute, Pose d'Or, Pique Point, Varnish, Marbleizing, Stains &
Artificial Graining. Plastics, Formicas, Paints, Polyvinyl Acetates, Esters of Polymethyacrylic,
Polycyclohexanones, Fiberglas Epoxy Resins, and much more.
Copyright 2024 - 2026 Button Lovers Database Project - All Rights Reserved