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How to clean cupboard handles – chrome, copper, brass and more.

17 March 2025 | Guides,

When it comes to a cleaning your kitchen or household furniture the first thing that comes it mind will likely not be the handles, but they are one of the most frequently touched surfaces in any home.

Whether it’s kitchen cabinets, bathroom units, or wardrobes, handles accumulate dirt, grease, and bacteria over time. This is especially true in the kitchen, where cooking oils and food residue can make them sticky and grimy.

Plus, cleaning your furniture handles isn’t just about hygiene, it’s an important part of preserving their long term appearance. Over time grime can dull the shine of metal handles and knobs. Even wooden or painted handles can suffer from discolouration and wear if they not kept clean.

The way you clean your drawer, cabinet or cupboard handles can vary depending on the material. Likewise, the shape of the handle can affect how easy it is the clean. Whether you’re looking to restore the sparkle of your chrome handles or bring out the rich warmth of brass, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding different types of furniture handles

Different styles and materials require different cleaning methods, and using the wrong approach could lead to damage or discolouration.

Common handle styles

Cupboard handles come in various shapes and designs, each with unique cleaning challenges:

Bar handles

A long, straight handle that is commonly seen in kitchens with a modern design. They easily collect fingerprints, especially those with a chrome or stainless steel finish.

Cup handles

 

Semi circular style handles, often seen in vintage or traditional style homes. The enclosed shape can trap dust and grease, which can be trickier to clean.

Knobs

 

Rounded handles that are popular on drawers in kitchens and other furniture. Due their smaller size they are touched in virtually the same spot repeatedly which can become worn or discoloured.

Handle materials and their characteristics

The material of your cupboard handles will determine how you should clean them:

Chrome

Chrome handles are sleek and modern but prone to showing water spots and fingerprints.

Copper

Copper handles develop a natural patina over time, which some quite like, but other people prefer to remove.

Brass

Brass handles need polishing in order to maintain the warm and golden shine.

Cleaning copper handles

Copper handles add a warm, rustic touch to furniture, but they require regular cleaning to prevent oxidation and tarnishing. Some people like the natural patina that develops over time, while others prefer to keep them polished and bright.

Everyday Cleaning

 

Wipe with a damp cloth and mild dish soap. Dry thoroughly.

Deep Cleaning

 

Make a natural cleaner using lemon juice and salt. Sprinkle salt onto half a lemon and rub it over the handle. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a soft cloth.

A paste of baking soda and water can also help remove tarnish.

Rinse and dry completely to avoid water spots.

What to Avoid

 

Leaving water on the surface, as copper is prone to tarnishing.

Harsh chemical cleaners that can strip the natural protective layer.

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Cleaning chrome handles

Chrome handles are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms because of their sleek, modern look.

However, they tend to attract fingerprints, water spots, and grease.

Everyday Cleaning

 

Wipe chrome handles with a soft microfibre cloth and warm, soapy water.

Dry immediately to prevent water stains.

Deep Cleaning

 

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto the handle and wipe clean with a cloth.

For stubborn marks, use a baking soda paste (mix baking soda with a little water) and gently rub with a soft cloth.

Buff with a dry microfibre cloth to restore the shine.

What to Avoid

Abrasive sponges and harsh chemicals that can scratch or dull the finish.

Leaving water droplets on the surface, as they can cause spotting.

Cleaning brass handles

Brass handles add elegance to furniture but require proper care to prevent tarnishing.

Exposure to air and moisture can cause brass to darken.

Everyday Cleaning

 

Wipe with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.

Dry immediately to prevent water marks.

Deep Cleaning

Mix lemon juice and baking soda to create a gentle cleaning paste. Apply to the brass, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean.

Vinegar and flour can also be combined into a paste to remove stubborn tarnish.

If the brass is lacquered, only use a damp cloth to avoid damaging the protective coating.

What to Avoid:

Ammonia-based cleaners, as they can cause brass to corrode.

Over-polishing, which can strip away natural patina if you prefer an aged look.

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