Tools and Materials

Tools

Mild Dish Soap
Soft-bristled Brush

Materials

Lint-free Cloth
Brasso
Warm Water

Types of Pewter

Knowing the type of pewter will help you choose the right cleaning method. There are three types of pewter, each with its own unique care requirements:

Polished Pewter: known for its shiny finish, it can be cleaned easily with mild abrasives.
Satin Pewter: It has a soft, matte finish and requires gentler cleaning methods to avoid damaging its texture.
Oxidized Pewter: This type has a darker, antique appearance and should be cleaned cautiously to avoid damaging the natural patina.

Caution

Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool, as they can scratch and damage the pewter's surface.

How to Clean Pewter

Cleaning pewter is essential to maintain its shine and prevent damage. Follow the process to clean pewter items.

Once the surface is clear, wash your pewter item with a mild soap and water solution.

Fill a bucket with warm water and add 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap. Stir until the soap is dissolved.
Dip your pewter item into soapy water and clean it with a soft cloth.
For intricate designs or crevices, use a soft-bristled brush and scrub gently in circular motions to lift dirt.
After cleaning, rinse with lukewarm water to remove soap residue. Leftover soap can cause streaks or tarnishing over time.

Caution

Wear gloves if necessary for satin or oxidized finishes and be gentle to avoid damaging the surface.

After rinsing, drying your pewter correctly is essential to avoid water spots.

Use a clean, lint-free cloth to pat the pewter dry. Avoid rubbing, as it may cause scratches.
If your pewter item has detailed sections, be sure to dry these carefully to prevent water spots.
Use a soft, clean cloth to buff the pewter gently after drying. This restores its shine.
Avoid buffing too hard for satin or oxidized finishes, as this could alter the matte finish or natural patina.

Caution

Avoid rubbing too hard during drying or buffing, as it may leave marks or scratches.

Cleaning pewter with Brasso can help restore the shine if stubborn tarnish or stains remain.

Apply a small amount of Brasso: Use a soft cloth to apply a small amount of Brasso to the tarnished areas. Be sure not to overuse it, as excessive application can damage the pewter.
Rub gently in circular motions: Rub the tarnished areas gently, applying minimal pressure to avoid scratches.
Wipe off excess Brasso: Wipe away any remaining Brasso with a clean, dry cloth after polishing.

Caution

Brasso should only be used on polished pewter. Avoid using it on satin or oxidized finishes, as it may damage their appearance.

Tips for Maintaining Pewter

Avoid Dishwashers: Never place pewter items in the dishwasher. Hot water, harsh detergents and high heat can damage the metal. Always wash your pewter utensils by hand.
Regular Cleaning: The best way to clean pewter is to clean to avoid the buildup of dirt or tarnish. Wipe it down with a dry, soft cloth after each use to maintain its shine.
Proper Storage: Store pewter in a dry, cool place, away from sunlight and heat sources. Wrap the pewter item in a soft cloth when storing it for long periods to avoid scratches.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your pewter is severely tarnished or has been damaged beyond your ability to restore it, consider professional help. Restorers can help fix pieces with deep tarnish, dents or scratches.

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Cleaning