Cleaning Old Window Hardware

Place the old hardware and enough water to completely cover them and a generous squirt of dish soap in a pan.

Cleaning old window hardware.

Clean water should be used when possible to flush the hardware clean. Cover with water add a couple of tablespoons of liquid laundry detergent and turn the heat to medium. A mild hand wash dish soap and water mixture can be used to loosen stubborn dirt. Don t use your favorite pan it s going to get disgusting.

If you think the piece is brass hold a magnet up to it. The next day the paint will be soft and ready to fall off the metal. Remove the hinge pin with a screwdriver or a cold chisel. Put on the lid and let the contents of the pot cook all night.

Tap on the handle of the screwdriver with your hand. Every couple years they will. Place the screwdriver or cold chisel under the edge of the head of the hinge pin. Clean carefully remove the hardware at least once a year for a good cleaning.

Always rinse the hardware with clean water. 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. If you are using vinegar and baking soda first brush the hardware with a layer of vinegar then sprinkle on baking soda. Bring to a boil.

Start with a gentle detergent and sponge. With the hardware fully wet sprinkle on a powdered cleaning product so the metal is completely covered. Next i took an old cloth that was a little damp and rubbed it around the hardware. I prefer an old school method that i know some folks will disagree with but it works fine for me.

After cleaning i like to give the hardware a good soak in boiled linseed oil. Photo by eric piasecki. Then i just rinsed it off and let it dry. Otherwise it s probably brass plated metal.

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. The mild chemical reaction of vinegar combined with baking soda is what loosens the tarnish. First i ran some water over the hardware then sprinkled the bar keeper s friend on. Spray a rag with the vinegar solution until it is damp but not.

Place the hardware in the crockpot. If you can t get it out with your hand use a hammer.