What supplies do you use for taking care of your mid-century finds?

For varnished wood that's lost some of its shine, I'll use Howard's Restor-a-finish, or some Howard's orange oil. Wood is tricky though, and the proper product depends on whether it was originally treated with oil- or water-based products. Best to test a small patch on the underside first.

If there's a little pitting or rust on the chrome, I'll wipe it with vinegar and rub it with aluminum foil. I've heard that this makes the aluminum donate ions to the oxidized chrome, but I haven't actually run the stoichiometry on it. The end result is that the chrome looks shiny again, but please remember to wash off any remaining vinegar with water and then dry very well, or it will rust even worse. This also doesn't work with deep rust or deep pitting, although it will help to some extent. You can then get a chrome protectant from an auto parts shop. I did this with an old bathroom fixture last week and it looks amazing, almost perfect mirror finish. I should have taken before/after photos.

I use Brasso on the brass fittings. Check to see if it's real brass before using that, though.