As another example, you can use copper cream or copper polish to polish a copper doorknob in your house. You can buy this type of compound at any hardware or home improvement store.
To make this paste even more effective, add 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of white vinegar to it before you add the silver.
You can also make this compound with flour instead of baking soda, although it won’t be as effective at removing tough spots. [4] X Research source You can also use lemon juice. Squeeze half a lemon onto a sponge and add about 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt on top to make a scented polishing compound. Note that this isn’t as effective a polish as a vinegar and baking soda paste, although it certainly smells nicer. [5] X Research source
Applying baby oil to your stainless steel after you’ve polished it is also a good way to remove any fingerprints you may have left on it.
For best results, use a non-abrasive liquid detergent that won’t harm your metal. If your piece has non-metal elements attached to it, such as a wooden back to a metal picture frame, be sure to detach these elements before cleaning and polishing the metal.
Perform this step in a well-ventilated area, especially if you’re using a specialized cleaner, since the polish may give off strong fumes as you apply it.
If your cloth gets dirty with tarnish during this process, replace it with a second, clean cloth to avoid spreading the tarnish back onto the metal.
Use a non-abrasive dish soap detergent that won’t damage the metal.
Note that you don’t need to soften or moisten your polishing compound before applying it to the buffing wheel. The heat and friction that the wheel generates will do this for you.
Apply as little pressure as possible. The movement of the buffing wheel will be very effective at polishing your metal, even with minimal pressure.
You don’t need to move the metal very fast. A deliberate, steady motion across the wheel will be best.
Depending on the size of your metal piece, you probably won’t need more than 1-2 applications of polishing compound on your buffing wheel.
