How do you clean antique metals?

DoNOT clean antique metals until you are sure cleaning will not reduce the value. Many items are ruined or reduced in value by improper or over cleaning. In some cases even rusted metal is more valuable than cleaned pieces. Check with an appraiser or collector of your particular type of item before cleaning. Never polish antique Bronze, Brass or Copper, collectors usually pay a premium for the aged look called patina. Sterling or silver is usually OK to polish however, very early examples 150 - 200 years old or older tend to be considerably more valuable with a patina than polished. If you are not sure whether to clean or not you can wax metal to stop rust and improve the look and this has the advantage of being easily removable without harming the finish. For rusted items that cleaning will not hurt, kerosene and a brass brush has been a traditional method. This requires care due to fumes and flammability and should be done outside. Commercial metal polishes and cleaners work fine but should be used with restraint and be sure to clean off any residue after use as it usually causes faster corrosion if left in cracks and crevices.