News

Unlacquered brass kitchen faucets are a top trend in kitchen design, adding a touch of vintage charm and sophisticated warmth. Unlike lacquered brass faucets, which have a protective coating, this "living finish" is meant to change, to live, and to tell a story through its evolving patina. If you've just installed one, or are considering an unlacquered brass kitchen faucet, understanding its care is key to appreciating its inherent beauty.

Embracing the Patina: The Beauty of a Living Finis

The most important rule for unlacquered brass faucet care is to let it be! The natural darkening and variation of the finish is what gives these faucets their unique character and antique appeal. The brass will naturally oxidize and develop a rich, complex patina over time, with colors ranging from soft browns to deep bronzes. This is not a flaw; it’s a feature. Each mark, each shade, contributes to a finish that is uniquely yours, making unlacquered brass faucets a living piece of art.

Gentle Cleaning for Everyday Maintenance

While you want the patina to develop, you still need to keep your brass kitchen tap clean from everyday grime.

• Mild Soap and Water: For daily cleaning, a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a tiny bit of mild dish soap is all you need. Gently wipe down the faucet to remove food splatters, fingerprints, and water spots.

• Soft Cloth Only: Always use a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Harsh scrubbers can scratch the brass, disrupting the natural aging process.

• Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, always dry the faucet completely with a clean, soft towel. This helps prevent excessive water spots and promotes an even patina development.

When to Polish (and When Not To)

Do you love the look of shiny brass? If you want to keep your faucet looking like the day it was installed, you can polish it. This is a common question: "how to make unlacquered brass shiny?" Polishing unlacquered brass will restore the finish to its original golden tone.

• Choose a Brass Polish: Select a high-quality brass polish specifically for unlacquered brass. Always test it on an inconspicuous area first.

• Apply Sparingly: Apply the polish according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Rinse and Dry: After polishing, rinse the faucet thoroughly to remove any polish residue and dry it completely.

• Be Mindful: Remember, polishing essentially "resets" the finish. The faucet will immediately begin to re-patinate after polishing. This is why many people prefer to let the patina develop naturally. If you don't want to deal with this, a lacquered brass faucet might be a better choice for you.

•