How to Clean Matte and Brushed Finish Fixtures

Matte and brushed finishes are popular choices for high-touch fixtures — think sink faucets and cabinet hardware — because they're so forgiving. They mask fingerprints, dirt, and water stains that are often instantly obvious on shinier polished surfaces. These finishes also add a soft glow to the room and work well in a variety of design styles, from traditional to modern.

Since matte and brushed fixtures are predicted trends for 2023, now is the perfect time to review how to clean these surfaces. These smudge-friendly surfaces may not need to be wiped down as frequently as their polished counterparts, but they do need to be cleaned regularly. However, before you spray, wipe, and rinse, it's important to learn the best products, tools, and techniques to use when cleaning these satiny surfaces without damaging them.

Pros and Cons of Matte and Brushed Finish Fixtures

There's a reason matte and brushed finishes are so popular. Black matte gives the room a sleek, sophisticated look. Brushed nickel is a stunning yet affordable option that can have warm or cool undertones.

Pros of Brushed Brass

• Adds warmth to the room
• Complements and blends in well with other colors
• Versatile tone that works well in elegant and contemporary spaces

Cons of Brushed Brass

• Can be pricier than other options
• Harder to match with replacement parts

Pros of Brushed Nickel

• Affordable option that tends to be easy to find
• Durable finish doesn't show fingerprints and watermarks
• Matches well with many design styles and color palettes

Cons of Brushed Nickel

• Clashes with stainless steel
• Need to pay attention to undertones when matching with other accessories

Pros of Matte Black

• 
  Affordable and available in multiple price points
• Easy to match with other colors
• Hides fingerprints and watermarks

Cons of Matte Black

• More easily damaged by tools
• Traps dust and powder on the surface

What Works: The Tools

It's surprising for some people to learn that the best and safest cleaners are often the simplest ones they have on hand. Warm soapy water is a great choice, but you can also use a pH-balanced cleanser with a soap base. Basic dish soap works well, as it typically has degreasing properties that can break down soap scum. Some people prefer using distilled white vinegar diluted with water.

You also need a gentle cloth with enough scrubbing power to tackle soap scum and hard water deposits. Microfiber and cotton cloths are good choices, but make sure they have not been washed with fabric softener. A sponge with a scratch-free scrubber can also work in a pinch, but you may find it easier to work a cloth around and in the nooks and crannies of the handles and the space between them. Grab a spray bottle to distribute the cleaner evenly around the fixtures' surface.

What Works: The Techniques

As soon as you have the right cleaners for the job, it's time to learn the best techniques for cleaning matte and brushed finishes. First, make sure you have two cloths: one for washing and one for rinsing. (Some people find it easier to use two different colored cloths.) Spray the fixture with an acceptable cleaner, and use the cleaning cloth to wipe the surface. Avoid rubbing the surface, which can damage the finish.

After thoroughly wiping the fixture, rinse away the cleaner with fresh water. It's also helpful to rinse the cloths frequently as you clean. This helps prevent too much soap build-up and makes it easier to wipe away the cleaner, which saves you time.

What to Avoid: Chemicals

Abrasive cleaners — including those marketed as all-purpose cleaners — can damage a matte or brushed finish. Some of them have small mineral pieces designed to remove stains, break down grease, and lift dried food particles caked to the surface. The harsh chemicals and bits of steel wool, nylon, or plastic strip away the finish, leaving behind scratches and nicks.

Avoid cleaners with the following ingredients:

• Acetone
• Lye
• Pumice
• Silica
• Steel wool

It's also a good idea to avoid using oven cleaner and liquid drain cleaner on counters and fixtures. They contain harsh chemicals that will not only strip the finish on the fixtures but can also be hazardous when used for other purposes.

What to Avoid: Tools and Techniques

The same advice to avoid harsh and abrasive cleaners also applies to the tools and techniques used to clean the fixtures. Steel wool, stiff brushes, and nylon scrubbers can strip away the protective finish and scratch the surfaces. These abrasive materials can cause damage even if you use a light touch and avoid pressure.

Before cleaning kitchen and bathroom fixtures, remove all your jewelry. This protects the jewelry, and it protects the surfaces. A piece of gold or a diamond can easily scratch the surface and leave behind permanent damage.

Are Steam Cleaners Safe for Matte and Brushed Fixtures?

Yes, you can use a steam cleaner to clean matte and brushed fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom. The steam does a great job loosening caked-on soap scum and dirt, making it easier for you to wipe away the build-up. It also sanitizes the surface without the use of harsh chemicals that you want to avoid. Best of all, the steam won't damage the surface — just be sure to use a soft cloth to wipe it down.

How Often Do You Need to Clean Fixtures?

In most cases, you don't need to clean bathroom and kitchen fixtures daily but aim for every few days to a week between cleaning. If you wait too long, dirt and dust can build up, making it harder to clean without some extra elbow grease. This helps prevent hard water stains from building up, keeps bacteria at bay, and stops dust from collecting on the surface.

Kingston Brass Carries a Wide Selection of Matte and Brushed Fixtures

When you're shopping for kitchen or bathroom faucets, tub faucets, and accessories, you'll find an impressive selection of products at Kingston Brass. Items come in a range of finishes, including matte and brushed options, so you'll be able to coordinate with the existing fixtures and update them as needed. Explore the inventory on your own, and reach out to our team of professionals when you need help finding the right part for your project.