Brass hardware brings a timeless warmth to a home, and with a little care it stays looking that way for years. This guide covers how to clean brass handles, knobs and pulls, and the mistakes that can damage them.

Why does brass tarnish?

Tarnish happens when brass reacts with oxygen, moisture and pollutants in the air, leaving a dull, darker surface. Humidity, oils from hands and cooking fumes all speed it up, which is why kitchen and bathroom hardware needs the most attention.

First, check your finish

How you clean brass depends on whether it is lacquered. All Pushka Home hardware is solid brass finished with a clear lacquer coating. The lacquer protects against fingerprints and stops the oxidation that causes tarnish, so lacquered brass only ever needs gentle cleaning.

Brass polish, acidic pastes and abrasive pads will strip lacquer and leave the finish patchy. Keep those for old, unlacquered brass only.

5 steps to cleaning lacquered brass hardware

1. Dust regularly. A soft, dry cloth once a week stops grime building up and dulling the finish.
2. Wash gently. For marks and fingerprints, use lukewarm water with a drop of mild washing-up liquid on a soft cloth.
3. Rinse. Wipe again with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove any soap.
4. Dry straight away. Buff dry with a soft microfibre cloth. Water left to sit can mark the surface.
5. Remove for a deep clean. If hardware is very grubby, unscrew it so you can clean every edge without getting soap on the door or cabinet. Make sure it is completely dry before you refit it.

Cleaning brass door hardware

Door handles and knobs are touched more than anything else in the house. Wipe them with a damp soapy cloth every week or two, paying attention to the underside of lever handles, then dry them well.

Cleaning brass cabinet hardware

Kitchen cabinet handles and cupboard knobs pick up grease from cooking. A soft cloth with warm soapy water lifts it without harming the lacquer. Dry them thoroughly afterwards.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using brass polish or metal cleaner on lacquered brass. It strips the protective coating.
• Acidic home remedies. Vinegar, lemon juice and salt pastes work on old unlacquered brass but will damage a lacquered finish.
• Abrasive materials. Steel wool, scouring pads and cream cleaners scratch the surface.
• Harsh sprays. Bleach and multi-surface sprays can cloud the lacquer, so spray onto a cloth, never directly onto the hardware.
• Leaving it wet. Always dry brass after cleaning.

Follow these steps and your brass hardware will stay a beautiful feature of your home for years to come.

Choosing new hardware? Order sample finishes to see them in your own home first, or email the Pushka team at contactus@pushkahome.com.