As Diwali draws near, the puja shelf is usually the first corner to get attention in the annual house cleaning. Brass diyas, thalis, bells and kalash that spent the year tucked away often come out looking dull, brownish and coated with old oil or wax. Before rushing to buy a commercial polish, it helps to know that simple kitchen staples such as lemon, salt, tamarind and vinegar can bring back the glow at almost no cost. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning brass diyas and puja items at home safely, without damaging their finish.
Fill a large bowl with hot water, add a few drops of dish soap and let the diyas soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Polishing over leftover residue only smears the dirt around, so clear it first. The oil and wax will soften and loosen by themselves. Wipe them off with a soft cotton cloth, and use an old toothbrush for the grooves and edges. For thick wax deposits, scrape gently with a wooden stick rather than a knife to avoid scratches. Lemon and salt is the quickest fix for light tarnish. Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle a generous pinch of coarse salt on the cut side and rub it over the brass in small circular motions. The citric acid breaks down the dullness while the salt acts as a mild scrubber. Let the juice sit for a couple of minutes on darker patches, then rub again. This method works best on diyas, small bowls and spoons, and leaves behind a fresh smell that is far gentler than chemical polishes.
