Quick Tip: Removing Paint from Hardware

For several months, I have been refinishing an oak staircase, doors and trim work, and built-in cabinets in our 1920's home. This last month, I completed the cabinets and the built-in bench (pictures to be posted soon). Like the cabinets, the hardware for the doors was covered in paint. Instead of purchasing new hardware, I used this simple technique for stripping the paint and returning the hardware to its original luster. All you need is a pot, water, and baking soda.

This process is easy to do and it works really well!

-Fill an old pot (you do not want to reuse the pot for cooking after this process) with about a quart of water.

-Add a 1/4 cup of baking soda. Don't stir it, just let the baking soda sit on the bottom of the pot.

-Bring the water to a simmer. Using tongs, add the pieces of hardware to the water. Let them simmer in the water for about 15-20 minutes.

-Remove them with the tongs, and using a soft toothbrush or cloth, remove any remaining paint.

I have used this method several times now and I am always pleased with the results!