How to Clean a Military Medal
A military medal is a representation of a special recognition received for military acts or performance. A military medal must regularly be cleaned to keep it shiny and looking good. This will also make the medal more impressive while on display.
Items Needed:
- Silver cleaner
- Rags
- Brass polish
- Cotton swab
- Buffer pad
- Remove the medal from its display case or wall mount. If the medal is attached to a ribbon, remove it. If the cleansers touch the ribbon, they could fade or damage it. If the ribbons need to be cleaned, they must be washed by hand with laundry soap and hot water or put in the washing machine.
- Use silver cleaner to clean the medal. Apply the silver cleaner to a rag, and rub the entire surface of the medal. Silver cleaner is safe to use on all types of medals, not just silver. It will help remove any rust or stuck-on dirt or grime. Use a cotton swab to clean detailed areas and engraved words inside crevices.
- Apply brass polish to the medal. The brass polish will make the medal shine and creates a protective barrier that prevents it from rusting or gathering dirt. Brass polish is strong, so it should be used sparingly.
- Use a soft cloth pad to buff the medal. This will remove excess cleaner and polish. It will also help add shine to the medal. Buff in an even circle-like pattern.
- Attach the medal to the ribbon and place it back in its display case or on its wall mount. Clean the medal as often as needed to keep it looking good.