Ironmongery Maintenance

Cleaning Recommendations for Ironmongery

At Handles Inc we take pride in the quality of every product, whether locally or internationally sourced. Proper cleaning not only preserves appearance but also extends the lifespan of your ironmongery.

General Cleaning

  • Wipe surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth.
  • Immediately follow with a dry microfibre cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
  • Avoid abrasive materials or scrubbing pads.
  • Keep the cloth exclusively for handles—store it separately from other cleaning cloths.
  • Clean outside handles more frequently, especially near the coast; salt particles can travel up to 100 km inland.
  • In winter, rain helps wash away salt deposits; in summer, manual cleaning must increase due to lack of rainfall.

Stainless Steel Products

  • Use Tiara Stainless Steel Cleaner along with the included fleece.
  • Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Buff gently with the fleece to restore shine without scratching.

What to Avoid

  • Any chemical cleaners not specifically formulated for ironmongery.
  • Solvents, harsh detergents, or general spray-and-wipe products.
  • Cleaning while wearing rings, keys, or metal hangers, as they can scratch surfaces. These may tarnish or damage the material and void any warranties against weathering or wear and tear.
  • Using abrasive pads or brushes that may tarnish or damage the finish and void warranties.
  • Lubricate moving parts (hinges, pivot points) with a silicone-based oil to maintain smooth operation.
  • Store spare cloths and cleaning products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their effectiveness.

Lacquered Solid Brass

Lacquered solid brass is protected by a clear lacquer coating that prolongs it from tarnishing. This wears off over time and will naturally age over time as the lacquer and the brass reacts causing it to tarnish (brown/green marks. This is not corrosion).

Recommended Cleaning Method

  • Wipe gently: use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth dampened with water to wipe away dust, fingerprints, and grime.
  • Rinse and dry immediately: rinse with a lint-free microfiber cloth dampened with plain water, then buff dry immediately with a clean lint-free microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or moisture from seeping under the lacquer.
  • We recommend regular cleaning weekly instead of once a month.

What to Avoid (Crucial)

  • No abrasives: never use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive powders, as they will scratch and dull the clear coat.
  • No household acids: avoid vinegar, lemon juice, or tomato-based cleaners on lacquered brass; these acids can cloud or strip the protective lacquer.
  • No traditional metal polishes: products like Brasso or Bar Keepers Friend are designed to remove tarnish from raw metal. On lacquered brass, they can act as a solvent or abrasive that damages the coating.

Special Maintenance

  • Non-abrasive wax: for extra protection, especially on external hardware, you can apply a thin layer of non-abrasive wax to help the lacquer last longer.

When the Lacquer is Damaged

If you see dark spots, peeling, or tarnish appearing in cracks, the lacquer has broken down. To restore it, you must:

  • Strip the old lacquer using a varnish remover or acetone.
  • Clean and polish the bare brass underneath.
  • Optional: re-apply a fresh coat of clear spray lacquer to seal it again.

Cleaning Unlacquered Brass

Cleaning unlacquered brass, often called living brass, depends on whether you want to maintain its aged patina or restore a high-shine finish. Because it lacks a protective coating, unlacquered brass is highly reactive to its environment.

Routine Cleaning (Maintaining Patina)

  • Method: use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water.
  • Technique: gently wipe the surface to remove fingerprints and dust. Dry immediately to prevent water spots or uneven tarnishing.
  • Protection: applying a thin layer of mineral oil or beeswax can enhance the gleam without removing the dark patina.
  • We recommend regular cleaning weekly instead of once a month.

What to Avoid

  • Harsh chemicals: avoid products containing bleach or ammonia, which can damage the metal structure.
  • Aggressive abrasives: never use steel wool or scouring pads to avoid permanent scratches.