Brass hardware is built to last, but a little regular care keeps it looking its best and working smoothly for decades. The right method depends on whether your hardware is lacquered, unlacquered or plated, so the first step is to identify the finish. If you are unsure, check your order documents or contact our team at Innovation Global Group Limited and we will confirm it for you.

Lacquered brass. Most polished and satin brass hardware we supply is protected by a clear lacquer. This coating does the hard work for you, so cleaning should be gentle. Wipe the surface weekly with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. For fingerprints or grease, use a cloth dampened with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap, then dry immediately. Never use metal polish, abrasive pads, ammonia-based cleaners or bleach on lacquered brass, as these will dull or strip the coating and lead to uneven tarnishing.

Unlacquered brass. Unlacquered or living-finish brass will naturally darken and develop a warm patina. Many clients enjoy this character and simply dust the pieces regularly. If you prefer to restore the original shine, apply a small amount of a non-abrasive brass polish with a soft cloth, working in the direction of any brushing lines, then buff with a clean cloth. A paste of lemon juice and baking soda is a traditional alternative for light tarnish; rinse thoroughly and dry afterwards.

Plated and black finishes. Chrome, nickel, gold-tone and black finishes should be treated like lacquered brass: soft cloth, mild soap, no abrasives. Powder-coated black hardware is quite durable, but harsh solvents can affect its sheen.

Hinges and moving parts. Every six to twelve months, check that hinge screws are tight, as timber can shrink and expand with seasonal humidity. A drop of light machine oil or a dry PTFE lubricant on the hinge pin keeps doors moving quietly; wipe away any excess so it does not attract dust. For knobs and handles, retighten fixing screws by hand if you notice any movement. Avoid power tools, which can strip brass threads.

Bathrooms, kitchens and coastal homes. Steam, cooking oil and salt air accelerate tarnishing. Wipe hardware in these areas more frequently and keep the surfaces dry. Ventilation helps a great deal in Hong Kong's humid climate.

Refinishing. If lacquer has worn through on a heavily used handle, the piece can be stripped, re-polished and re-lacquered rather than replaced. This is one of the key advantages of solid brass over cheaper materials. Contact us for refinishing advice or replacement parts that match your existing hardware.

With these simple habits, your brass hardware will continue to look refined and perform reliably for many years.