How to Polish Cymbals
Updated Nov 11, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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A cleaner made for cymbals takes off marks that washing leaves behind. Work on a soft cloth so the cymbal stays steady and its edge stays safe.
Take the cymbal off the stand
Lift the cymbal off the stand by the bell and set it down on a soft cloth on a flat surface. Working with the cymbal flat keeps it steady and keeps the edge from catching on the stand. Keep the wing nut and felts together so they are ready when the cymbal goes back on.
Wipe off dust and fingerprints
Wipe the whole cymbal with a soft dry cloth to lift dust and fingerprints. Work from the bell out toward the edge, and turn the cymbal over to wipe the underside too. A dry wipe first keeps grit from scratching the surface when you wash it.
Wash with water and mild soap
Wet the cymbal with water and add a small amount of mild soap. Rub the surface with a soft cloth, then rinse the soap away with water. This step lifts the grime that a dry cloth leaves behind.
Use a cleaner made for cymbals
If marks remain after washing, use a cleaner made for cymbals and follow the directions on the bottle. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth and rub it over the marked areas. Do not use cleaners made for other metals or household surfaces, and do not use abrasive pads.
Dry the cymbal and put it back
Dry the cymbal at once with a soft dry cloth so water spots do not form on the surface. Check that the cymbal is dry on both sides before you put it back on the stand. Set the cymbal on the stand and refit the felts and wing nut.
What you need
Meinl Cymbals HCS Box Set Cymbals
A brass cymbal set with 13" hihats, a 14" crash and a 10" splash, made in Germany with a 2-year warranty.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- 2-year warranty stated
Meinl Cymbal Set Box Pack with 14”
A brass cymbal set with 14" hihats, a 20" ride, a 16" crash and a 10" splash, made in Germany with a 2-year warranty.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- 2-year warranty stated
SABIAN SBR Cymbal Set
A brass cymbal set with 14" hats, a 20" ride, a 16" crash and a 10" splash, covered by a two-year warranty.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- Two-year warranty stated
Zildjian A0230 16" A Medium Thin Crash
A 16" bronze medium thin crash cymbal with a 1-year warranty.
- Alloy: Bronze
- 1-year warranty stated
These come from our ranked list Best Cymbals, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Can I polish a cymbal while it is on the stand?
No. Take the cymbal off the stand and lay it flat on a soft cloth. A cymbal on the stand can rock while you rub it, and the edge can catch on the stand.
What should I avoid when I clean a cymbal?
Avoid abrasive pads, solvents and cleaners made for other metals, since they can mark the surface.
How do I keep a cymbal clean after polishing?
Wipe the cymbal with a soft dry cloth after you handle it, so fingerprints and dust do not build up. Store the cymbal on its stand or flat in a case so the edge stays safe.
Ranked cymbals lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.