How to clean antique brass

Antique brass is chosen because it doesn’t look new. Its darker tone, soft sheen, and subtle variation are what give it character. Cleaning it the wrong way can strip that character completely.

antique brass door knob

This guide explains how to clean antique brass safely, how often to do it, and—just as importantly—what not to do, so your door handles and knobs stay authentic rather than shiny and brassy.

First: know what “antique brass” actually is

Most antique brass door handles, knobs and hardware fall into one of two categories:

  • Antique-finished brass (brass or zinc with a factory-applied aged finish, usually lacquered)
  • Living / unlacquered brass that darkens naturally over time

Most architectural hardware sold as antique brass is finished and sealed, meaning it should be cleaned gently, not polished.

👉 If your hardware looks evenly dark with subtle highlights and doesn’t change much over time, it’s almost certainly lacquered antique brass.

What you should never use on antique brass

Before we get into cleaning, this is critical:

❌ Brasso or metal polish
❌ Abrasive creams or powders
❌ Wire wool or scouring pads
❌ Vinegar, lemon juice, or acidic cleaners
❌ Alcohol-based sprays

These will:

  • remove the antique finish
  • create bright patches
  • leave the brass looking uneven and cheap

Once the finish is stripped, it cannot be restored without refinishing.

Routine cleaning (recommended for most homes)

This is all most antique brass door handles and knobs ever need.

You will need

  • A soft microfibre cloth
  • Warm water
  • A tiny drop of mild washing-up liquid (optional)

Step-by-step

  1. Wipe dry first
    Remove dust and fingerprints with a dry cloth.
  2. Light damp clean (if needed)
    Lightly dampen the cloth with warm water. Add one drop of mild soap if there’s grease.
  3. Wipe gently
    Clean the surface without scrubbing.
  4. Dry immediately
    Use a clean, dry cloth to remove all moisture.
  5. That’s it.
    No polishing. No buffing. No shine chasing.

Deeper cleaning (only when handles are visibly dirty)

If your antique brass hardware has built-up grime—common on entry doors or high-traffic rooms—use this method sparingly.

What to use

  • Warm water
  • Mild soap
  • Soft toothbrush or detailing brush

Method

  1. Mix warm water with a drop of mild soap
  2. Dip the brush lightly (not dripping)
  3. Gently clean around crevices and detailing
  4. Rinse cloth (not the handle) and wipe residue
  5. Dry thoroughly

👉 Never let water sit on the surface.

How often should you clean antique brass?

  • Internal doors: every 2–4 weeks (light wipe)
  • Bathrooms: weekly light wipe (due to humidity)
  • Front/utility doors: weekly or as needed

Over-cleaning is worse than under-cleaning.

Should you polish antique brass?

No — not if you want it to stay antique.

Polishing:

  • removes the aged finish
  • creates shiny spots
  • ruins the uniform patina

If you want bright, polished brass, it’s better to choose polished brass hardware from the start rather than trying to force antique brass to shine.

What about fingerprints and hand marks?

This is normal and expected.

Antique brass:

  • hides fingerprints better than polished finishes
  • develops soft highlights where it’s touched
  • looks better with gentle wear

If marks bother you:

  • switch to satin brass or bronze
  • or choose antique brass with a heavier, darker finish

Special note: bathrooms & kitchens

Humidity and cleaning sprays are the biggest threats.

Best practices

  • Avoid spraying cleaners near the handle
  • Wipe handles dry after heavy condensation
  • Use gentle soap only

Steam and chemicals will shorten the life of the finish if left unchecked.

Can you restore antique brass if it’s damaged?

  • Minor wear: often blends in naturally over time
  • Patchy shine: usually permanent
  • Stripped finish: requires professional refinishing

This is why prevention (gentle cleaning) matters so much.

Quick care checklist (save this)

✔ Dust with a dry cloth
✔ Clean with warm water only
✔ Dry immediately
✔ Clean less, not more

❌ No metal polish
❌ No abrasives
❌ No acids
❌ No soaking

Final advice

Antique brass door handles and knobs are designed to age gracefully, not sparkle. The best-looking antique brass is usually the least interfered with.

If you clean it gently, infrequently, and with the right expectations, it will reward you with:

consistent colour

authentic patina

long-lasting character