Asked at the buffing wheel

We are a soft paste with a very fine polishing agent and cleaners suspended in it. As you rub, the paste lifts oxidation, tarnish, dirt and oils off the surface and fills the cloth with them — that is why the cloth turns black. What stays on the metal is a microscopically thin film that slows down new tarnish.

No. Used with a soft, clean cloth, we do not scratch. If you see fine marks, check the cloth: grit trapped in a shop rag scratches, the paste does not. Fold to a fresh face often.

Chrome, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, bronze, copper, sterling silver, gold, pewter, nickel and magnesium. Many people also use us on acrylic, Plexiglas and ABS to take out fine scratches. Do not use us on anodized aluminum — we will remove the anodized layer.

Yes, gently. Plating is thin, so use a small amount, light pressure, and stop as soon as the piece shines. The goal is to clean the plating, not to polish through it.

Less than you think. A pea-size dab handles a ring, a knife blade or a hand's width of chrome. Extra paste only means extra buffing.

Light surface rust and the freckles on old chrome, yes. Deep pitting softens but doesn't disappear, and flaked plating can't be polished back.

Soft cotton: an old T-shirt, a flannel or a terry cloth. Microfiber works for the final buff. Avoid shop rags that may carry grit.

Yes. A small amount on a clean felt bob or soft wheel removes the haze left after cutting compounds. Keep speed moderate so the paste doesn't sling.

Our formula's VOC content is above California's limit for metal polish, so orders to California addresses are not filled. Every other state can order as usual.

No. Simichrome is a soft paste, not a liquid. It stays put on vertical surfaces, works on a wider range of metals, and leaves a thin protective film after buffing.

Kept capped and cool, the paste stays usable for years. If a tin has dried at the edges, use the soft paste from the center.