
Expert Advice for your Lawn & Garden TV Host of Today's Homeowner® and home expert for The Weather ChannelVideo, Doors and Windows, Painting, Interior Published 12/12/2006 by Danny Lipford
To strip paint from door hardware without the time consuming use of paint thinner, heat 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a pot on the stove and then pour it into an old cake pan. Let it set about 5 minutes. It’s a good idea to use pliers to take the hardware out of the pan because it may still be a little warm. Using a soft bristled brass brush, so as not to scratch the surface of the hardware, dip it in the water/vinegar solution and then scrub the hardware. This is a great alternative to purchasing new hardware.