Knobs and handles: discover simple ways to get them shiny again

There are cleaning chores that we only rarely take care of, but which can really make a difference in any corner of the house: even if we remember to dust the doors or around the furniture regularly, we don't always pay attention to the condition of their handles and knobs.

These objects, however, are used very often and therefore are a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Furthermore, when months or years go by without being really thoroughly cleaned, those made from metal can oxidize, become covered with dark spots and tarnish that makes them lose their original condition. To restore their original appearance and make them really shine like new again, we can use some DIY remedies.

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If your handles or doors are made of:

• Brass or copper: in a bowl, mix a tablespoon of plain flour (type 00), a tablespoon of table salt and a tablespoon of white vinegar. Mix them to create a paste and rub it on the metal surface with the help of a soft cloth. Let it act for about ten minutes (or even longer) and then prepare a small bowl with soap and water to rinse everything off gently. Finally, dry off well. You can also rub half a lemon that you have sprinkled with a little cooking salt directly on the tarnish, leave it to act for a few minutes and then rinse it off as in the above case.
• Lacquered brass, or chrome / nickel finishes: this material is a little more delicate, so after removing any dust with a microfiber cloth, only use water with a little soap. It could the soap you use for the dishes or even Marseille soap, and in small quantities. Rub the surfaces, but only with soft cloths.You can keep the handle shiny for longer by applying a layer of special wax to the surface ( thin coating of mineral oil or linseed oil can also be effective in preventing tarnishing).
• Pewter: for pewter there are those who recommend an ancient, rustic-type remedy. Take a cabbage (yes, a cabbage!) and use the outermost leaves - the ones that are usually discarded - and rub them on the handles, then wipe them clean with a soft cloth. If you want to remove a dark film of tarnish from the pewter, you can dissolve a teaspoon of salt in 230 ml of white vinegar and finally add enough flour to turn everything into a creamy paste. Apply the paste onto the handle and leave for 30-60 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and dry thoroughly.

Do you have a favorite method for polishing your furniture's handles and knobs?