Cleaning Old Window Hardware

Don t use your favorite pan it s going to get disgusting.

Cleaning old window hardware.

Otherwise it s probably brass plated metal. Photo by eric piasecki. Put on the lid and let the contents of the pot cook all night. Tap on the handle of the screwdriver with your hand.

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. Always rinse the hardware with clean water. With the hardware fully wet sprinkle on a powdered cleaning product so the metal is completely covered.

Remove the hinge pin with a screwdriver or a cold chisel. Place the old hardware and enough water to completely cover them and a generous squirt of dish soap in a pan. If the magnet doesn t stick the piece is solid brass and you can use a brass polish. I prefer an old school method that i know some folks will disagree with but it works fine for me.

Place the hardware in the crockpot. 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. Clean water should be used when possible to flush the hardware clean. Place the screwdriver or cold chisel under the edge of the head of the hinge pin.

If you are using vinegar and baking soda first brush the hardware with a layer of vinegar then sprinkle on baking soda. 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. Start with a gentle detergent and sponge.

A mild hand wash dish soap and water mixture can be used to loosen stubborn dirt. 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. If you think the piece is brass hold a magnet up to it. Spray a rag with the vinegar solution until it is damp but not.

Then i just rinsed it off and let it dry. Particular attention should be given to cleaning dirt from slides in window hinges and from the track where the patio door rollers glide. These pieces had some nooks and crannies so i took an old toothbrush to really get into those. First i ran some water over the hardware then sprinkled the bar keeper s friend on.

Cover with water add a couple of tablespoons of liquid laundry detergent and turn the heat to medium. Bring to a boil.