If you’re cleaning a light shade, remove the shade before cleaning it.

Dishwashing soap is effective because it cuts away grease while remaining fairly gentle. The simpler the soap, the better. Scented soaps often contain additives that only create further streaking rather than removing it.

Some brands recommend using wax paste to polish their brushed nickel products. However, others advise against it. Polishing brushed nickel helps to restore its sheen.

You can find this type of polish at hardware or automotive stores.

If no visible damage occurred to your brushed nickel finish, you can proceed to cleaning the entire item with the vinegar solution.

If your item is a shower nozzle, use a paperclip to unclog the jet holes. If there are still mineral deposits remaining, repeat the diluted vinegar application once more. [11] X Research source