How to Clean Different Types of Metal Keychains

Every metal requires special care to maintain its luster and long-lasting durability. Here's how to clean and care for stainless steel, silver, gold plated, brass, iron, copper and bronze key chains!

 

1. Stainless steel key chains (strong and durable)

Best for: everyday use, rust-proof, but can get dirty or stained.

What you'll need:

Warm water

Mild dishwashing liquid

Soft cloth or sponge

 

How to clean:

Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid into warm water.

Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and wipe the key chain.

Rinse with water and dry immediately to avoid leaving water spots.

For added shine, wipe with a soft cloth dipped in a few drops of olive oil.

Tip: Avoid scrubbing hard to prevent scratches.

 

2. Silver or silver-plated key chains (tend to lose their shine)

Best for: elegant key chains, but may lose their shine over time.

What you'll need:

Baking soda

Water

Soft toothbrush

Microfiber cloth

 

How to clean:

Make a paste with baking soda and a few drops of water.

Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub areas that have lost their shine.

Rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth.

Buff with a jewelry polishing cloth to add shine.

Tip: Store silver key chains in a ziplock bag to slow the loss of luster. 3.

 

3. Gold-plated or brass key chains (need gentle cleaning)

Best for: delicate key chains that need careful handling.

What you'll need:

Mild detergent

Warm water

Soft cloth

 

How to clean:

Mix a few drops of mild soap in warm water.

Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe the key chain.

Rinse immediately and pat dry (avoid rubbing hard to prevent abrasion).

Tip: Do not use baking soda or scrub vigorously as it will remove the gold plating.

 

4. Iron or steel key chains (prone to rust)

Best for: durable key chains that will rust over time.

What you'll need:

White vinegar or lemon juice

Salt

Soft brush

 

How to clean:

Soak your key chain in white vinegar or lemon juice for 1-2 hours.

Scrub gently with a soft brush or old toothbrush.

Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent further rusting.

Apply a thin coat of oil (WD-40, baby oil or coconut oil) to prevent future rusting.

TIP: Keep iron key chains dry to avoid rust.

 

5. Copper or bronze key chains (to remove green patina)

Best for: antique style key chains that will develop a green patina over time.

What you'll need:

Lemon juice or vinegar

Salt

Soft cloth

 

How to clean:

Sprinkle salt on the rusty areas.

Wipe with a lemon wedge or a cloth soaked in vinegar.

Let sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Dry completely and polish with a soft cloth.

Tip: To prevent oxidation, apply a thin coat of clear nail polish or wax.

 

Tips for making any metal keychain shine fast

Toothpaste Tips → Rub a small amount of non-gel toothpaste on your keychain, then rinse.

Banana Peel Polish → Rub a banana peel on metal for a natural shine!

Aluminum Foil and Baking Soda (for silver and brass) → Wrap your key chain in aluminum foil, add baking soda and hot water, and let it sit for 10 minutes.