Cleaning Door Handles and Hardware
Door handles and hardware may be small items, but they make a big difference in the look and function of your door. These appliances also give you a lot of headache when they break or get dirty. It also doesn't help to know that medical experts say that doorknobs and livers are carriers of disease-causing germs and bacteria. That's why you should take care of your door furniture. To help you out, here are some tips on cleaning and maintaining the popular types of doors today – brass, copper and silver.
Door knobs, backplates, and even latches made of brass are a favorite in most homes today, mainly with the recent revival of vintage architecture, because of the magical quality of brass that can transform any ordinary look into something that which appears to be valuable. In addition, brass is also known to have self-sterilizing properties. However, you still need to clean and maintain your brass items regularly to keep it looking good and lasting. In addition to getting general dirt and grime from everyday use, brass door handles and hardware are prone to tarnishing, which usually means the metal reacts to certain elements in the air.
A very basic but effective solution begins by taking a slice of lemon and dipping it in salt. Rub the submerged fruit on the brass instrument. Wipe it off with a cotton or non-abrasive cloth and your device is clean again. You can also use this cleaning trick on accessories made of copper, which is very similar to brass. Copper also has self-disinfecting properties and looks great, which makes it a favorite among home designers and homeowners as well.
Brass and copper that are visibly tarnished can be restored by making a flour-salt-vinegar solution. In a bowl, add equal amounts of all purpose flour, salt and vinegar and mix well. You can then apply this paste mixture to your brass or copper. Leave it on for a few minutes and wash off with warm, soapy water. Finish brass or copper door hardware by buffing it with a non-abrasive cloth.
Sterling silver or silver-plated items are also an excellent choice for door accessories, but they tend to tarnish easily. When it's time to clean your silver-plated items, take them apart and place them on an aluminum tray or glass dish covered with aluminum oil. Sprinkle a little baking soda over the silver items until they are covered, then pour boiling water over them. Wait a few minutes until the blur is gone. Wipe them gently with a soft cloth.
In addition to these cleaning techniques, regular cleaning with hot, soapy water is recommended for your door handles and other door furniture. Cleaning them regularly will help them retain their original appearance and functionality.
Door handles and other accessories for your doors are available at Designer Handle. Visit their site to see their complete inventory of door handles