doors using an old-time metal polish called Brasso. It may or may not take off the remnants of the factory-applied lacquer that’s sprayed on most brass hardware to inhibit corrosion, but try some polish alone to see. Daub it on liberally with a clean cotton rag, rub it in, and then let it dry for a few minutes before polishing it off. You may have to repeat the process a few times to get down to bright metal. A toothbrush is ideal for cleaning nooks and crannies. If remnants of unpolished, lacquered brass remain, a gentle wipe with lacquer thinner removes it before you polish again.