How to Clean Hardware the Right Way?

Cleaning hardware may seem small, but it can make a big difference in how your furniture and home decor look.

Over time, hardware like knobs, handles, and hinges can gather dust, grime, and oils from hands, which can make them look dull or dirty. The good news is that cleaning your hardware is easy and doesn’t require fancy products.

With a few simple steps and some basic supplies, you can restore your hardware to its original shine. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to clean different types of hardware and keep them looking fresh without much effort. 

Why Clean Hardware?

Before we get into the cleaning process, we must understand why cleaning hardware is necessary. Here are a few reasons why you should regularly clean your hardware:

• Preservation: Cleaning helps preserve the materials, preventing dirt and grime from causing damage or buildup that can wear out the surface over time.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Dirty or tarnished hardware can make even the best-designed furniture or cabinetry look worn out. Keeping your hardware clean ensures your space looks fresh and polished.
• Functionality: Grime or buildup can affect hardware functionality like door handles, hinges, and faucets. Cleaning can help maintain smooth operation.
• Health: Dust and dirt can contribute to allergens or bacteria. Cleaning your hardware removes these contaminants, improving the overall cleanliness of your home.

What You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the following items:

• Mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner
• Baking soda (optional for tougher stains)
• White vinegar (optional for tarnish removal)
• Microfiber cloths or soft rags
• A soft-bristled toothbrush or small brush
• Small container or bowl (for soaking)
• Rubber gloves (optional)
• Polishing cloth (for brass, silver, or other metals)

Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Hardware

1. Remove the Hardware

If possible, remove the hardware from its fixture, whether it’s door handles, cabinet knobs, or faucet handles.

Using a screwdriver, gently remove the screws or bolts. This will give you better access to all sides of the hardware and allow you to clean more thoroughly.

If the hardware is difficult to remove, you can still clean it in place, but be extra careful not to get a cleaning solution on the surrounding surfaces.

2. Soak the Hardware

Place your hardware in a small bowl of warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner.

Let it soak for 10–15 minutes. This will loosen any dirt, grime, or oil that has built up. For tougher stains or tarnishing, you can add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the solution.

Vinegar removes oxidation, grime, and tarnish, especially on metals like brass or copper.

3. Scrub the Hardware

After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a small brush to scrub the hardware.

Focus on crevices and areas where dirt may have built up. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch or damage the surface. Gently scrub in small circles to lift away any dirt or buildup.

For metal hardware like knobs or hinges, you can dip your brush in the water and gently scrub away any tarnish or grime.

4. Remove Stubborn Stains

For hardware that has stubborn stains, like soap scum on faucets or dried-on grease on cabinet pulls, use a paste made from baking soda and water.

Apply the paste to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a brush.

Baking soda is a natural, non-abrasive cleaner that can help lift tough stains without damaging the surface of the hardware.

For brass or silver hardware, you can use a metal cleaner specifically designed for those materials.

Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a microfiber cloth to polish the surface and restore its shine.

5. Rinse and Dry

After scrubbing, rinse the hardware under warm water to remove any soap or cleaning solution.

If you’ve been cleaning in place, use a damp cloth to wipe down the hardware. Dry the hardware thoroughly with a soft, clean microfiber cloth.

Moisture left on hardware can lead to water spots or tarnishing, so drying everything thoroughly is essential.

6. Polish (Optional)

You can use a metal polish to restore their shine for brass, copper, or other metals that tend to tarnish.

Apply a small amount of polish to a microfiber cloth and gently buff the hardware in circular motions. Be sure to use a polish that is suitable for the material to avoid damage.

Polishing not only brings back the shine but also adds a layer of protection that helps the hardware resist tarnishing in the future.

Cleaning Different Types of Hardware

Different types of hardware require different cleaning methods. Let’s break down the cleaning process based on the hardware’s material.

1. Metal Hardware (Brass, Copper, Stainless Steel, etc.)

• Brass: Brass hardware tends to tarnish over time, especially if exposed to moisture or air. Clean brass hardware with a mixture of vinegar and water to remove tarnish. If the tarnish is stubborn, use a metal polish made specifically for brass to restore its shine.

• Copper: Copper can develop a greenish patina over time. To clean copper hardware, soak it in vinegar and salt for 10 minutes, then scrub with a brush to remove tarnish. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is resistant to rust but requires regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Use a mild soap solution or a specialized stainless-steel cleaner to remove fingerprints and smudges. For a shiny finish, use a polishing cloth to buff the surface.

2. Wooden Hardware (Knobs, Handles, etc.)

• Wooden Knobs: Wooden hardware like knobs and drawer pulls requires gentle cleaning to prevent damage. Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down the surface. Avoid soaking wooden hardware in water, as this can cause it to swell or warp. Use a wood cleaner or polish to bring back its natural shine if the wood is particularly dirty.

• Wooden Handles: For wooden handles on doors or cabinets, use the same gentle cleaning method. Wood can be sensitive to moisture, so avoid harsh chemicals or too much water. If you want to add a protective layer, consider using a wood polish or wax.

3. Glass and Ceramic Hardware

Glass and ceramic hardware like knobs or drawer pulls are easy to clean but need to be handled carefully to avoid breakage.

Clean these materials with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap. Use a glass cleaner for stubborn stains or fingerprints to bring back its shine.

Maintaining Clean Hardware

Once you’ve cleaned your hardware, you’ll want to keep it looking fresh. Here are some simple tips for maintaining clean hardware:

• Regular Cleaning: Make a habit of cleaning your hardware every couple of months or as needed. Regular cleaning will prevent dirt and grime buildup and keep your hardware shiny.

• Protective Coating: For metals like brass and copper, consider applying a protective coating or polish that helps prevent tarnishing. This will save you time on future cleanings.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that can scratch or damage the surface of your hardware.

• Wipe Off Spills Quickly: If you spill anything on your hardware, such as food or liquid, clean it up as soon as possible. This prevents stains or discoloration from setting in.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cleaning hardware is an easy and effective way to keep your home looking fresh and well-maintained.

By following the simple steps of soaking, scrubbing, rinsing, and polishing, you can restore the shine and functionality of your hardware.

Whether it’s brass, wood, glass, or metal, each type of hardware has its cleaning method to ensure it looks its best. Regular cleaning helps preserve the material, prevents buildup, and makes your home look more polished.

With just a little time and effort, your hardware will shine like new, improving the appearance and functionality of your furniture, doors, and fixtures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my hardware?

Clean your hardware every 2-3 months or when it looks dirty or tarnished.

Can I clean the hardware without removing it?

Yes, you can clean hardware in place with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.

What should I use to clean tarnished brass?

Use a mixture of vinegar and water or a brass cleaner to remove tarnish.

Is baking soda safe for cleaning hardware?

Yes, baking soda is safe and effective for cleaning hardware.

How can I clean grease off cabinet knobs?

Soak the knobs in warm soapy water and scrub with a soft brush.