HARDBRASSWARE



Crafted to Last. Designed for Life.

We create custom solid brass hardware for architects and designers, prototyped in Melbourne and manufactured at scale in Jakarta, using raw brass that develops character over time.

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15: How to Care for Raw Brass: Cleaning, Patina and Preservation





Raw brass is a living material. It reacts to its surroundings - developing a unique patina through exposure to air, moisture, and touch. At Hard Brassware (HBW), we embrace that evolution. But for those who prefer to preserve or restore its original golden tone, this guide outlines how to care for raw brass in a way that’s both effective and environmentally conscious.





Embracing Patina - or Preventing It

Over time, raw brass oxidises and darkens, creating a patina that many find beautiful and authentic. For others, maintaining a brighter, polished look is part of their design preference. Both are valid approaches - and easy to manage.

To preserve the patina:
  • Allow the brass to age naturally

  • Wipe with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and skin oils

  • Avoid chemical cleaners that strip the surface


To maintain a polished finish:
  • Use a gentle natural cleaner such as lemon juice mixed with baking soda

  • Alternatively, polish using a vinegar and salt solution applied with a soft cloth

  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely


Further Reading:
  • Inside AST – 5 Easy Methods for Cleaning Brass: https://www.insideast.com/blogs/our-blog/how-to-clean-brass-we-tested-5-effective-and-easy-methods-for-you

  • Family Handyman – How to Clean Brass with Vinegar: https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-clean-brass-with-vinegar/






Preventing Tarnish from Moisture or Oils

Brass tarnishes more quickly in humid or coastal environments and on high-touch surfaces. To reduce unwanted oxidation:
  • Wipe down hardware after it gets wet or exposed to steam

  • Apply a small amount of beeswax or linseed oil to create a breathable barrier

  • Clean regularly if the piece is frequently handled


Further Reading:
How to Maintain Brass Without Removing Patina: https://cleanreference.com/maintaining-brass-without-removing-patina/




Long-Term Maintenance

Unlike coated finishes that chip or flake, raw brass holds up beautifully over time with minimal upkeep.

We recommend:
  • Checking hardware every 6 to 12 months

  • Re-tightening screws and fittings as needed

  • Reapplying natural wax or oil once or twice a year for high-traffic items

  • Letting natural skin oils contribute to the finish, they help maintain a warm, worn character






What to Avoid

To protect your brass and preserve its surface integrity:
  • Avoid abrasive scrubbers or steel wool

  • Skip ammonia-based or chemical cleaning sprays

  • Do not apply synthetic sealants or lacquers

  • Avoid machine polishing tools that produce heat and may warp the metal


Further Reading:
HowStuffWorks – How to Clean Brass: https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-hints-tips/cleaning-organizing/how-to-clean-brass.htm







HBW’s Philosophy on Care

At HBW, we believe care should add to a material’s story, not erase it. Our hardware is designed without synthetic coatings, so it can age naturally and reflect the life around it. Whether you want to keep it shining or let it darken with character, our pieces are designed to adapt.





Final Thoughts

Looking after brass is simple - and deeply satisfying. With a bit of attention, your hardware will last for decades, taking on a finish that’s uniquely yours. The more you live with it, the more beautiful it becomes.

Because real materials, like real stories, are meant to grow.





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