How to Clean and Care for Your Hardware
If you want your hardware's finish to look brand-new for years to come, follow these easy care instructions:
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Lacquered and Clear-Coated Finishes
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Finishes such as polished brass should be cleaned every few weeks, especially
in harsh conditions such as the highly salty air of coastal regions. To clean, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away dirt and residue.
A mild soap can be used if necessary. Once clean, wipe the hardware dry with a soft cloth.
You may also apply a thin layer of a non-caustic wax, such as carnauba car wax, to help reduce the appearance of shallow scratches and protect the finish for a long-lasting shine.
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Non-Lacquered or Living Finishes
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Living finishes such as a true oil-rubbed bronze will change with time.
Normal use will slowly remove some of the finish to reveal the brass underneath.
To clean, wipe with a soft, damp cloth but do not scrub unless you wish to speed-up the natural aging process.
A thin layer of oil, such as vegetable oil, can be applied to help prolong the original finish.
Follow up on this process by applying a non-caustic, clear paste wax.
It is important to note that the finish on all non-lacquered hardware, especially in high-traffic areas, will change over time regardless of the care given.
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Stainless Steel Finishes
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Cleaning stainless steel
door hardware is much like cleaning lacquered hardware of any other material.
For the best looking door pulls and knobs, wipe down each piece regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
This is especially true for hardware installed on exterior doors.
A mild cleaner maybe used if necessary.
Polish with a non-caustic wax, carnauba wax can be used here too, to help restore the beautiful shine.
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