Cleaning and Polishing an Antique Metal Trunk (alternatives, paint, cleaner)

[ontheroad]

I have a rather attractive metal-type antique trunk that I'd like to clean and polish. If it is clean, and polished it could function more as a piece of art and still hold all my odds and ends (thinking art supplies) but I haven't figured out some simple solvent or cleaning detergent that might work and a follow up polish.

Any suggestions or experience with cleaning something like this?

[cdelena]

Many cleanings of antiques have resulted in a drop in value. If you care you might consult a reputable dealer before moving forward.

[ontheroad]

Nope, I don't care about the value but its functionality. I've been collecting old stuff my whole life and sometimes, like now, I just want to use it.

Thanks for the thoughts, though!

Originally Posted by cdelena

Many cleanings of antiques have resulted in a drop in value. If you care you might consult a reputable dealer before moving forward.

[Ultrarunner]

You can treat most painted metal surfaces as you would the paint on your car.

If it is really dull and faded you could start with a mild compound/cleaner followed by a wax/sealer.

Always smart to try whatever you decide on a small, least visible section to test before doing the entire object.

Old Trunks are neat and some are very ornate.

[ontheroad]

Thanks, Ultrarunner.

The trunk is not painted, and is rather ornately embossed.

Do you have any suggestions for a cleaner?

[Ultrarunner]

Maybe a mild metal polish, an old toothbrush and a cotton rag?

[ontheroad]

Thanks, this could work. I suppose I'll have to give it a try and work the inside first.

Appreciate you making the suggestions.

Originally Posted by Ultrarunner

Maybe a mild metal polish, an old toothbrush and a cotton rag?

[gentlearts]

I was advised to use Endust on some antique tin candleholders. It gave a protective coating and left a nice finish on the metal. You could try it.

[ontheroad]

Interesting, gentlearts. I did a search (what would we do in the 21st century without these) for Endust and discovered this useful site.

I wanted to see its properties and determine if I had alternatives hanging around the house--it seems it is a petroleum-based product.

I'm going to try Ultrarunner's suggestion, and also cooking oil (recommended on another fascinating cleaning product site).

Frankly, I hate cleaning, but I really want to bring this trunk upstairs and put into the functional world rather than hibernate in my projects work-shop.

[Historic Bessemer]

you could use Brasso and a Dremel Tool with a cloth polishing bit on it! Thats what i use to polish the door hardware(KNOBS, HINGES, LOCKSETS) on our 108 yr old home after stripping the paint from them!