How to Lighten the Color of Metal

Abrasive Method

• 1

  Clean the surface of the metal of all dirt and sand particles with a soft cloth and degreasing cleaner.

• 2

  Attach the buffing wheel to the sander. Place a small amount of the roughest polishing compound onto the cloth.

• 3

  Buff the surface of the metal with the buffing wheel until the entire surface is slightly dulled and scratched.

• 4

  Repeat the buffing process with finer and finer polishing compounds until the surface shines.

Non-Abrasive Method

• 5

  Place a small amount of metal polish onto a soft cloth. Use a polish designed to work with the metal you want to lighten.

• 6

  Rub the polish onto the metal using circular motions. Allow the polish to sit on the metal for one to five minutes.

• 7

  Wipe away the polish with a new soft cloth. Repeat the process until the metal lightens and shines.

• 8

  Protect the metal surface from tarnishing by rubbing a small amount of Carnauba wax into the surface of the metal.