PlatePrestige Brass Hardware Care Guide

Investing in PlatePrestige brass hardware means choosing lasting quality and timeless elegance. To ensure your switches, dimmers, and plates retain their beauty for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. This guide provides easy-to-follow instructions for all our brass finishes.

General Care Tips for All Brass Finishes

• Gentle Cleaning: Always use a soft, damp cloth (microfiber is ideal) to wipe down your brass hardware. Avoid abrasive materials like scouring pads or rough sponges, which can scratch the surface.
• Mild Soap Only: For tougher spots, a very mild dish soap diluted in water can be used. Apply to the cloth, not directly to the brass. Wipe clean with a fresh damp cloth and immediately dry with a soft, clean cloth.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners, ammonia-based products, or strong solvents (like bleach, vinegar, or industrial cleaners) on your brass hardware. These can strip finishes, cause discoloration, or damage the lacquer.
• Dust Regularly: A quick dusting with a dry, soft cloth will prevent buildup and help maintain the shine.
• No Polishing on Lacquered Brass: If your brass has a clear protective lacquer (most of our polished and aged finishes do), do NOT use brass polish or abrasive compounds. Polishing will damage the lacquer.

Specific Care for Your PlatePrestige Brass Finishes

Polished & Lacquer-Sealed Brass

Our polished brass finishes are protected with a durable clear lacquer to prevent tarnishing and maintain their brilliant shine without constant polishing. This finish is designed for low maintenance.

• Routine Cleaning: Simply wipe regularly with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately to remove fingerprints and dust.
• Deep Cleaning (if needed): For persistent marks, use a cloth lightly dampened with mild soap and water. Gently wipe, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
• Avoid Polishes: Do not use brass polish or abrasive cleaners, as they will damage the protective lacquer.

Aged Brass (Lacquered)

Our aged brass finishes are given a rich, antique patina and then sealed with lacquer. This provides the classic look of aged brass without further oxidation, making it easy to care for.

• Routine Cleaning: Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For smudges, wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately.
• Avoid Polishes: Like polished lacquered brass, do not use brass polish or abrasive cleaners on this finish, as it will damage the lacquer.

Raw Brass (Unlacquered)

Our raw brass finish is unlacquered and designed to naturally oxidize and develop a unique, darker patina over time, enhancing its character. The speed of this process depends on environmental factors (humidity, touch, etc.).

• Natural Patina: Allow the brass to age naturally for a truly authentic look. This is the beauty of raw brass.
• To Slow Patina: Regular wiping with a soft, dry cloth can help remove oils and moisture that accelerate tarnishing.
• To Restore Original Shine (Optional): If you wish to restore the original bright luster, a specialized brass cleaner and a soft cloth can be used. Follow the product instructions carefully. **Note:** Once polished, the natural aging process will begin again.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Even for raw brass, avoid strong acids or abrasive compounds that could damage the metal surface itself.

When to Contact PlatePrestige

If you have any questions about the specific care for your PlatePrestige brass hardware, or if you encounter any issues not covered in this guide, please don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. We're here to ensure your brass hardware remains beautiful for generations.