How to clean and polish antique pewter?
There are a few different ways to clean your pewter. First we will start with Antique Pewter which usually contains lead may develop a dark patina. This is a result of the lead. This patina creates an antique look that many manufacturers try to imitate. That patina layer acts as a protective layer and should not be removed. If removed the layers underneath are exposed and in time will corrode again. Lead free pewter or modern day pewter does oxidize over time. Polished Pewter Polished Pewter is very shiny and smooth. It needs to be cleaned a couple of times a year. TO CLEAN 1. Make paste with 1 tsp salt, 1 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup flour. 2. Apply to pewter 3. Let sit for 15 minutes to 1 hour 4. Then rinse and dry with soft cloth. To take out fine scratches you can use a polish called “Mothers” that can be found at the hardware store. Apply a small amount and rub in a circular motion with a soft cloth. You must be careful as you rub it wil remove a fine layer of pewter. Satin Pewter Sati
