Bronze plaques make a profound statement and offer a lasting image of prestige. They are used to honor achievements, celebrate milestones, and even commemorate lives.
Whether a bronze plaque is proudly displayed in a home office, showcased in the workplace, or placed in an intimate outdoor setting, it’s important to know how to properly care for the plaque without scratching or damaging its protective clear coat.
Provided below is a short guide explaining how to clean a bronze plaque so that its timeless, elegant appearance can be maintained overtime.
Supplies Needed
In this guide, we use the following simple household tools to clean bronze:
- Spray bottle
- Ivory® dish soap / Simple Green® soap
- Warm water
- Soft, lint-free cloth
- Soft bristled, plastic brush
- Specialized bronze cleaning product
- Wax (optional, but recommended
Best Way to Clean Your Bronze Plaque
Before getting started, it should be known that a bronze plaque that isn’t necessarily dirty, just a little dusty, should simply be wiped down with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Regular dusting will save you some elbow grease down the road.
Step 1: Spray
Prepare a mixture of mild soap such as Ivory® dish soap or Simple Green® and warm water. Spray the entire surface of the plaque without allowing it to become oversaturated.
Be sure not to let the soapy water sit for too long.
Step 2: Wipe
Using a soft, lint-free cloth, apply a moderate amount of pressure to carefully remove any dirt and debris that has collected on the plaque.
Step 3: Scrub
If the plaque doesn’t come completely clean with soap and water, scrub it with a soft bristled, plastic brush and a specialized bronze cleaning product.
Note: Both hard metal and wire brushes can leave swirl marks or scratches on the material’s surface.
Step 4: Rinse & Dry
Completely rinse the plaque so it is free from all applied soaps and chemicals. Allow it to thoroughly dry before handling.
Step 5: Wax (Optional)
Apply a thin layer of wax to enhance the protective coating. Lightly and gently buff the surface with a soft wax detailer.
We suggest using Trewax® Clear Paste Wax.
Tips for Success
Below are a few additional tips to help you attain the best possible results.
- 100% polyester cloths are preferred over a cotton blend.
- Consider contacting the company that supplied the plaque to find out what type of bronze cleaner they recommend.
- Do not use cleaning agents and waxes that contain acidic chemicals or silicone. This includes bleach, window cleaners, and shaving cream.
- Waxing an outdoor bronze plaque is the best way to protect it from atmospheric components in order to ensure its longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about cleaning bronze plaques.
What can happen if you don’t clean a bronze plaque?
A bronze plaque that isn’t cleaned on a regular basis can become stained and lose some of its shine over time. This is especially true for plaques exposed to harsh weather conditions, moisture, and air pollution.
How often should you clean bronze plaques?
A bronze plaque that gets a routine cleaning is much easier to take care of than one that hasn’t been tended to for a long time.
Can you use WD-40 to clean bronze?
WD-40 is made of water, petroleum distillates, and various fats and oils. It also contains various non-active ingredients like ketones, alcohols, hydrocarbons, and silicone oil.
These ingredients are not meant for cleaning purposes – they are meant to protect the product from corrosion and seal out moisture.
Hall of Fame is Here for You
By following this quick and easy plan your bronze plaque should look as good as new!
Whether the plaque is large or small, simple or elaborate, it’s classy aura can be admired by all those who pass by.
If you have any further questions about cleaning a bronze plaque or are interested in purchasing one, contact a Hall of Fame team member at 217-446-8313. To request a free quote and product design, you can get started with our simple design request.
