Tarnished medals lose their value and shine, leading to emotional disappointment. If left untreated, corrosion can cause permanent damage. The solution? Learn how to safely clean your medals at home.
You can restore the original shine of your medals using simple household items like baking soda, vinegar, or mild soap—no harsh chemicals required. Always remember to clean gently to preserve the surface.
Are you ready to discover how to keep your medals gleaming for years to come?
Why Should You Clean Medals at All?
Medals hold historical, emotional, or monetary value. However, over time, exposure to air, humidity, and skin oils can lead to oxidation and tarnish. Leaving them uncleaned for years can result in permanent discoloration or even corrosion, especially in medals made of copper or brass. Whether they’re military honors, sports trophies, or collector’s items, regular maintenance is essential for preserving their appearance and significance. Cleaning also helps prevent dirt buildup that could attract pests or cause material degradation. By taking just a few careful steps, you can prevent long-term damage and honor the medal’s legacy properly.
What Household Items Can You Use to Clean Medals?
You’ll be surprised to find that many effective medal-cleaning solutions are already in your home. For instance, baking soda mixed with water creates a mild abrasive paste suitable for gently lifting tarnish. White vinegar is especially effective for brass and copper medals—simply soak them for a few minutes before rinsing and drying. For most metal types, mild dish soap with warm water is safe to use. To avoid scratching the surface, make sure to use soft brushes or microfiber cloths. It’s best to steer clear of commercial metal cleaners unless you’re certain they won’t harm the medal’s finish or patina. Always remember to test a small area first. Utilizing household items provides a safe and accessible alternative to professional cleaning.
How to Clean Different Types of Medals?
When it comes to cleaning different types of medals, it’s important to remember that each type requires a unique cleaning method.
▲ For gold-plated medals: Use mild dish soap and warm water. Gently wipe with a soft cloth—never scrub.
▲ Silver medals: Apply a paste of baking soda and water, gently rub, and rinse well. Be sure to avoid abrasive brushes.
▲ Brass or copper medals: Soak briefly in vinegar with salt, then polish with a soft cloth.
▲ Enamel or painted medals: Use only warm water and a microfiber cloth—avoid using chemical solutions.
Always remember to dry the medal thoroughly to prevent moisture damage. If a medal contains fabric or ribbons, clean the metal part separately and spot-clean the fabric carefully.
Final Tips for Storing Cleaned Medals
After cleaning, proper storage is key to maintaining a medal’s condition. Always store medals in a cool, dry environment to avoid moisture buildup. Use acid-free tissue paper or cloth pouches to prevent metal-on-metal contact. It’s best to steer clear of direct sunlight or humid areas like basements. Silica gel packets in display cases can help control humidity. For long-term preservation, consider archival boxes or frames with UV-protective glass. Never store cleaned medals in plastic bags, as some plastics release chemicals over time that may tarnish the surface. Good storage habits complement your cleaning efforts and keep your medals pristine for generations.
In Summary
Clean with care and store with love—your medals deserve lasting shine.
