How do I shine the chrome on a 1959 Kirby?

[Weston]

I've written to a number of sites/experts asking about how to do this.

Anyone with some suggestions? Thus far, my tools are a dremel with polishing bit. Not sure about what sort of polish I need, or if its a good plan to use the dremel...

 

[scarlett]

Hello. Before you try anything harsh, have you tried simply cleaning it with baking soda? My husband brought home a beautiful 1950's O'Keefe & Merritt stove last year with a chrome top. It was so dirty, I couldn't tell what we had so I cleaned it several times with baking soda, warm water and a soft sponge. It came out nearly perfect, no major scratches or anything, just normal wear and tear for its age. This same method worked well on the 1953 Buick's chrome which then just needed some chrome polish and is nearly perfect. I think the chrome on the older items is a far better quality than anything today. And by the way, is the Kirby you are trying to clean a vacuum? I love those. Good luck.

 

[cooncatbob]

Try Simichrome polish, available at most auto parts store with the waxes and polishes.
Bob.

 

[Miss Neecerie]

http://www.marbeck.com/cleaners_household_simichrome.html

is your answer....

 

[Foofoogal]

Simichrome is a great product to polish bakelite also.

 

[scotrace]

Simichrome. Absolutely.

 

[Twitch]

Hope the chrome is NOT pitted as most light, repeated polishing mentioned here will work. But like vintage auto chrome only professionals can get the pits off and then rechrome....quite more costly.