Unsure how to clean your door knobs? It’s really not that hard with a few simple tips and tricks! 

Your door handles and locks are the silent gatekeepers of your home—welcoming you in, keeping you safe, and bidding you farewell when you leave. Yet, amongst the chaos of daily life, they often go unnoticed… that is, until they start to show signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning your door hardware regularly is important for keeping your doors functioning smoothly and maintaining their good looks. But don’t worry—it really doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming!  

Here are our tips for how to clean door knobs and keep them in top condition – no hassle required.

Importance of Regular Maintenance for Door Hardware 

Firstly, why is it important to know how to clean door handles?

Like other parts of your home, your door hardware needs regular TLC to prevent corrosion, rust, and deterioration. Neglecting maintenance can lead to sticky handles, malfunctioning locks, and a decrease in the security and appearance of your doors. However, by adopting a simple cleaning and maintenance routine as part of your regular chores, you can extend the lifespan of your door hardware and keep your living space looking schmick. 

Cleaning and Maintaining of Different Materials  

Door handles and locks come in various materials, each requiring specific care to maintain their shine and functionality.  

Here’s how to clean door knobs, levers, pull handles, and sliding door handles of various materials: 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel handles and locks are durable and resistant to wear, but they’re prone to tarnishing over time. And who wants tarnished door handles? Not us! 

It’s important not to clean stainless steel with anything too abrasive, such as steel wool or bleach, as this can cause significant damage. 

Our tips on how to clean door knobs using a gentle process for stainless steel: 

1. Wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth to remove any surface dust and grime. 
2. Mix a mild detergent with water and gently scrub the affected areas using a soft-bristled brush. 
3. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots. 
4. Polishing your door knobs after cleaning is also important to restore shine and protect against future tarnishing. Apply a thin layer of stainless steel polish using a soft cloth, following the manufacturer's instructions. 

Brass

Brass hardware adds a touch of elegance to any door, but it requires a little extra care to maintain its lustre. 

So, how to clean brass handles on doors?  

1. Create a paste using equal parts vinegar, flour, and salt. 
2. Alternatively, mix about half a lemon and a teaspoon of baking soda to make a paste.
3. Apply your chosen paste to the brass surface, then let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a clean toothbrush or soft-bristled brush. 
4. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry immediately to prevent water spots. 
5. Finally, apply a thin coat of brass polish using a soft cloth to protect the surface and restore its shine. 

If you’re looking for ideas on how to clean old door handles, the above methods can be really effective in restoring them. 

Another even simpler solution for cleaning brass door knobs is: 

1. Add a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent to a jar of warm water.
2. Immerse a microfibre cloth or soft-bristled brush into the solution and wipe the surface thoroughly.
3. Dry the brass with a clean, dry cloth. 

Polishing your brass door handles after cleaning will also help ensure their longevity. Choose a polish made specifically for brass to remove any discolouration, and polish gently with a soft cloth. 

Chrome

Chrome door handles are a popular choice today for their sleek and modern look, but they can show fingerprints and water spots more easily than other materials (especially polished finishes).  

Here’s how to clean door knobs made from chrome: 

1.     Wipe them down with a damp microfibre cloth to remove surface dirt and grime. 
2.     Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it.
3.     Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. 
4.     Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, as they can scratch the chrome surface. 
5.     Finish by drying with a clean cloth to prevent water spots. 

Once again, finish with a polish suited to chrome finishes.

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Door Locks 

Keeping your door locks in good working order is essential for your safety and security—particularly at the front entrance and other easily accessible entry points of your home. 

Do: 

• Lubricate the lock mechanism annually using a silicone-based lubricant to prevent sticking and ensure smooth operation.
• Inspect the strike plate and latch alignment regularly to ensure proper engagement and security.
• Clean the keyhole and surrounding area with a soft brush to remove debris and prevent key jams.
• Test the lock periodically to ensure it is functioning correctly, and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly. 

Don’t: 

• Use WD-40 or other oil-based lubricants on door locks, as they can attract dirt and debris, leading to increased wear and potential lock failure.
• Force a key that is difficult to turn, as this can damage the lock mechanism. Instead, try lubricating the keyhole and using gentle pressure to turn the key.
• Leave keys in the lock when not in use, as this can put unnecessary strain on the mechanism and increase the risk of breakage. 

Ensure the Longevity of Your Door Hardware with The Lock Shop 

Remember, cleaning door handles doesn’t have to be hard! By incorporating our tips into your household routine, you can keep your door hardware looking and functioning at its best for years to come. 

The Lock Shop offers a wide range of high-quality door hardware, including a variety of locks and handles to suit your needs. From Iver, to Lockwood, Yale, Legge and more—when looked after correctly, they’ll be sure to stand the test of time. Contact us today if we can assist!