You can use individual plastic bags to keep track of which screws go with which fixtures. Label the bags with permanent marker.

If you don’t have an old pot, you can likely buy one at a thrift store for under $5. Alternatively, you can use an old crockpot, but only if you can commit to not cooking in it again. You can also use an old crockpot, but only if you can commit to not cooking in it again.

If you’re using a crockpot, set to the low setting and leave it on for a minimum of 8 hours and up to overnight.

You may want to put on a pair of gardening gloves when removing the brass. This should still allow you to have the necessary mobility you need to handle the tongs, while also allowing you to protect yourself from the heat.

If you didn’t soak the brass fixture in hot water, you can try to put some paint remover on the specific area of paint you want to remove, like Dirtex. [8] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.

If you start to notice any scratching, switch to a soft cloth to more gently rub off the paint. You can also scrape away the paint with your fingernails, if you don’t mind getting them dirty.

Avoid wire brushes, as these may scratch the surface of your brass. You can also try using a putty knife to help remove excess paint. [12] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.

If you’re dealing with older brass, you may now see a nice antique patina on the metal. Depending on your preferences, you may choose to leave that intact rather than polishing or waxing it away. [13] X Research source

Protect yourself from these substances by wearing gloves while you apply and remove it. Discard your gloves and any rags with chemical stripper on them in a metal trash can outdoors. Don’t use sandpaper to remove the paint, since it will just scuff up your fixtures. [16] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.

If you prefer, there are also a variety of commercial wax options for your brass. The application process will also require a soft cloth, and you can buff the surface using the same small circular motions you would use with the oil. Some of these substances may require you to wear protective gloves.