How to clean brass: Tips and advice

Brass: how to clean it effectively

A timeless and elegant material, brass adds a touch of refinement to your interior. However, over time, it can lose its lustre due to oxidisation or insufficient maintenance. In this article, discover simple and effective tips for cleaning and maintaining your brass door handles so that they remain as shiny as the first day.

Why maintain your brass door handles?

Brass, a noble and durable material, is often chosen for door handles due to its timeless elegance. However, over time, it can oxidise and lose its lustre. Regular maintenance helps preserve its shine and ensures its longevity. By taking care of your brass door handles, you maintain both their beauty and effectiveness in the long term.

Steps for cleaning your brass handles

Preparation before cleaning

Before you begin, remove the door handles for easier and more effective cleaning. Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of warm water and white vinegar, or use a mild soap. This step ensures that residue and dirt are properly removed.

Deep cleaning

Soak a soft cloth in your cleaning solution and gently rub the handles. For stubborn stains, create a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water. Apply this paste to the affected areas, leave for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Dry your handles immediately with a clean cloth to avoid water marks and preserve their shine.

Protection against oxidisation

Once your handles are clean, apply a protective agent such as a brass-specific wax. This product will create a barrier against moisture and air, thus delaying oxidisation and prolonging their shine.

Precautions to take

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could scratch your brass handles. Prefer gentle products and delicate movements to maintain the quality of your handles.

view our brass cabinet handles and knobs

Long-term maintenance

For regular maintenance, wipe your handles with a dry cloth once a week. This prevents dust accumulation and reduces the risk of oxidisation.

For more information, also discover our tips for keeping your door hardware in good condition.

For additional advice, see our article on simple tips to keep your door handles spotless.

FAQ on brass cleaning

What cleaning frequency is recommended?

Clean your brass handles every three months to prevent oxidisation. Weekly maintenance with a dry cloth is also recommended to maintain their shine.

How to restore heavily oxidised brass?

For heavily oxidised brass, use a special metal product or consult a professional for more thorough treatment. A gentle approach with lemon juice can also be effective.

Are natural products effective?

Yes, white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda are very effective for cleaning brass whilst being environmentally friendly. These solutions restore the material's natural shine without harsh chemicals.