How to Remove Paint From Brass Light Fixtures

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Things You'll Need

  • Crock pot

  • Soft clean cloth

  • Vinegar

  • Stainless steel pot

  • 0000 steel wool

  • Hair dryer

  • Plastic edge

  • Paint thinner

  • Paint brush

  • Toothbrush

Remove Paint From Brass Light Fixtures

Paint has a way of finding its way to surfaces it shouldn't be on no matter what precautions are taken. Regular soap and water won't touch this kind of stain. If it finds its way to a brass light fixture it may seem like an impenetrable eyesore, but fortunately paint isn't as impervious as one might assume. There are several proven methods for removing paint from brass light fixtures.

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Step 1

Place the fixtures in a crock pot with just enough water to cover them and set it on low. Allow this to sit overnight and by morning the paint should be soft enough to wipe away with a soft clean cloth.

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Step 2

Place the fixtures in a stainless steel pan with enough vinegar to cover the fixtures. Bring the fixtures and vinegar to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Allow the fixtures to simmer for about ten minutes. Remove the fixtures from the vinegar carefully as they will be hot. (Wear thick rubber gloves to prevent injury.) Scrub the paint from the fixtures using 0000 steel wool. Wipe away any residue with a clean dry cloth.

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Step 3

Heat the paint with a hair dryer until it is soft. Scrape the paint away with a plastic edge. Wipe the fixture clean with a soft dry cloth to remove any residual.

Step 4

Apply paint thinner to the paint on the fixture with a paintbrush. Scrub the paint away with a steel wool pad or a toothbrush.

Tip

Once the paint is removed polish the fixtures with Brasso to restore the shine.

Warning

Do not boil the brass fixtures with vinegar in an aluminum pot as this will cause a reaction that could damage the fixtures. When boiling the fixtures or cleaning with any chemicals be sure to ventilate the area well.

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