Dulling Cheap Shiny Chrome?

[Sterillium]

Without resorting to sanding/grinding/scratching, is there anything I can use (preferably legal and safe… ish) to dull off cheap, over-shiny chrome?

[steveo3002]

what item?

coat of matt clear coat ? if its not open to the weather might last ok

[Danns]

If you want to strip it back to copper layer (although might not have it if cheap!)

Dip in a bucket of spirits of salt drain cleaner (hardware shop/amazon etc)
(its 25%-32% HCL)

Be very careful with fumes / your eyes / everything.

And unless you want it all gone... don't leave it there too long!

Toolstation also do Brick acid which is around 16% HCL.. might be a safer bet.

[Evoluzione]

Scouring pads or the auto paintshop equivalent.

[Simpo Two]

Danns said:

Dip in a bucket of spirits of salt drain cleaner (hardware shop/amazon etc)
(its 25%-32% HCL)

Might be better if they called it hydrochloric acid. 'Spirits of salt' is a meaningless name.

[CypSIdders]

What is the goal here, is it less shine or do want to make it look old?

If you want to make it look old, suspend the item, in a sealed container, above, (not immersed in), some white vinegar.
After an hour or so you will get tarnishing.
This method is often used to "relic" guitar parts.

[Danns]

Simpo Two said:

Might be better if they called it hydrochloric acid. 'Spirits of salt' is a meaningless name.

Agreed, but want to say it’s an old time name for it as a cleaning product?

One of those products that I’d be worried about in the hands of the average person who has skipped reading the instructions/warnings.

[Simpo Two]

Danns said:

Simpo Two said:

Might be better if they called it hydrochloric acid. 'Spirits of salt' is a meaningless name.

Agreed, but want to say it’s an old time name for it as a cleaning product?

Probably, it sounds nice and quaint.

Anyone for phlogiston?