Technical insights 04/16/2025

How to clean door handles

How to clean door handles
Door handles are details that are often overlooked, but are essential for the proper functioning of a door. Proper maintenance not only ensures hygiene, but also contributes to preserving the beauty of materials and maintaining visual harmony in rooms.

This guide will take you step-by-step through the cleaning of door handles. We will explore effective techniques for different materials, useful for both homeowners and interior design enthusiasts.

Why is it important to clean door handles?

  • Hygiene and health: door handles are among the most frequently touched objects in the home, easily accumulating bacteria, viruses and invisible dirt. 
  • Material durability: regular cleaning prevents oxidation, scratches or permanent stains on delicate materials such as brass or wood. 
  • Aesthetics: well-maintained handles enhance the appearance of doors and interiors, adding a touch of elegance and order.

Taking care of these small but significant details contributes to a healthier, cosier and visually harmonious environment.

Tools and products needed for cleaning

Before you start, get the right tools to avoid damage to the materials:
 
  • Microfibre cloths (do not scratch and remove dust effectively).
  • Soft sponges for stubborn dirt. 
  • Specific cleaning agents for each material (steel, brass, wood, etc.). 
  • Natural solutions such as vinegar and bicarbonate for eco-friendly cleaning. 
  • Gloves to protect your hands, especially if you use chemicals.

Each material requires different care, so it is important to follow specific methods to ensure durability.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Handles

Recommended products:
 
  • Mild detergents for stainless steel.
  • Water and white vinegar solution.
  • Mineral oil for polishing.
 
Step-by-step cleaning procedure:
 
  1. Remove dust: wipe with a dry microfibre cloth.
  2. Cleaning with detergent: apply a small amount of stainless steel cleaner directly on the surface or on a damp cloth.
  3. Gently rinse: wipe with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
  4. Polishing: with a dry cloth, apply a few drops of mineral oil to restore shine.
 
Errors to avoid:
 
  • Do not use abrasive sponges which could scratch the surface.
  • Avoid products containing chlorine or bleach, as they can damage stainless steel.
 
Ermetika offers for its flush sliding and hinged doors the exclusive Adapta handle, available with or without lock and in silver, black, white, champagne and dark bronze finishes. Thanks to its characteristic of being flush with the door panel, it integrates perfectly, creating visual and stylistic harmony.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Handles

Cleaning Brass Doorknobs

If you are wondering how to clean brass door handles, here is the answer:

Recommended products:

  • Brass-specific cleaner. 
  • Lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda for a natural solution.
 
Cleaning procedure:
 
  1. Preparing the natural solution: mix lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda until it forms a paste.
  2. Application: gently rub this paste onto the surface with a soft cloth.
  3. Rinsing: wipe with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
  4. Polishing: use a dry cloth to achieve an even shine.
 
The brass will look as good as new without any risk to the health of the materials. For an in-depth look at the treatment of materials, we recommend reading the guide Yellowed doors? How to whiten them.

Cleaning Wooden Handles

Recommended products:

  • Neutral wood cleaner. 
  • Linseed oil to maintain elasticity and colour. 

Cleaning procedure:

  • Dust removal: wipe off surface dirt with a dry cloth.
  • Cleaning: dilute a neutral detergent in lukewarm water and apply with a damp sponge.
  • Drying: gently blot with a dry cloth.
  • Oil treatment: apply a small amount of linseed oil to protect the wood and keep it shiny. 

Cleaning Porcelain and Ceramic Handles

Porcelain and ceramic handles add a touch of elegance and sophistication to rooms, but require care in maintenance to preserve their beauty over time. Since these materials are known for their delicacy, it is essential to treat them with care when cleaning. Thorough cleaning not only removes dirt and residue, but also helps to maintain their original appearance, preventing irreparable damage such as cracking or chipping.

Recommended products

When it comes to cleaning porcelain and ceramic handles, it is important to choose the right products so as not to damage them. Here are the best tools and products to use:

  • Mild soap or ceramic cleaners: opt for detergents specifically for ceramic surfaces or, alternatively, a mild soap. Avoid abrasive products that could scratch or damage the surface.
  • Microfibre cloths: microfibre cloths are ideal for gentle cleaning of handles, as they remove dirt without scratching or leaving marks.

Cleaning Procedure

Following a correct procedure is essential to ensure a long life of porcelain and ceramic handles. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Preparation of cleaning solution: Start by preparing a solution of lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid using water that is too hot, which may damage sensitive materials.
  2. Cleaning the handle: Dip a soft cloth into the prepared solution and use it to gently clean the handle, removing dust and dirt. Avoid applying too much pressure when cleaning so as not to damage the surface.
  3. Rinse with a damp cloth: Once the handle has been cleaned, use a damp cloth to rinse off any soap residue, thus preventing marks or stains from remaining on the ceramic or porcelain.
  4. Drying: Immediately dry the handle with a soft, dry cloth, preferably a microfibre cloth, to prevent haloes or water residue from forming. Make sure to dry it completely, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Care during cleaning

Since porcelain and ceramics are fragile materials, it is important to handle handles with care. Although they are durable, they can easily chip if dropped or handled with too much force. Avoid using hard brushes, abrasive cleaners or other tools that could scratch or damage the surface. By treating them with care, you will be able to preserve their beauty and maintain their impeccable appearance over time.

Natural products for cleaning handles

If you prefer environmentally friendly and natural solutions for cleaning handles, there are several effective methods you can use to keep your handles shiny without resorting to harsh chemicals. These methods are not only environmentally friendly, but are also easy to prepare with ingredients you probably already have at home. Furthermore, by using natural ingredients, you avoid exposing yourself and your home to toxic substances while still achieving brilliant results.

Here are some of the best natural remedies you can try:

1. White vinegar and baking soda
White vinegar and baking soda are two natural ingredients that, when combined, create a powerful mixture to degrease and disinfect. This combination is particularly effective for stainless steel or brass handles, which tend to collect dust and grease over time. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant, while baking soda has a gentle abrasive action, removing dirt without damaging the surface.

Procedure:
Mix one part white vinegar with a small amount of baking soda until a thick paste is formed. Apply this mixture to the handles and leave it to work for a few minutes. Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to clean, then rinse with a damp cloth. Finally, wipe well with a dry cloth to avoid streaks.

2. Lemon juice and salt

Lemon juice and salt are an ideal solution for oxidised or stained metal handles. The acid in the lemon acts as a powerful antioxidant, while the salt is a natural abrasive that helps remove stains and oxidation from metal surfaces.

Procedure:
Squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon into a bowl and add a teaspoon of salt. Stir to obtain a slightly abrasive solution. Apply it directly to the handles, concentrating on areas with oxidation or stains. Use a soft cloth to gently rub the surface. After letting the mixture act for a few minutes, rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a soft cloth.

3. Homemade Eco-Friendly Solutions

Another simple and natural option is to create a multi-purpose cleaning solution with ingredients readily available at home. A mixture of water, natural soap and baking soda offers effective cleaning without the use of harsh chemicals, ideal for all types of handles.

Procedure:
Mix 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of natural soap and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a spray bottle. Shake well to mix the ingredients. Spray the solution directly onto the handles and leave for a few minutes. Use a soft cloth to clean and remove any residue, then wipe well with a dry cloth. This solution is perfect for gentle and safe cleaning on any surface.

Restore shine to home details

Caring for door handles is a small gesture that makes a big difference in the appearance and functionality of your home. Whether stainless steel, brass, wood or ceramic, by following these steps you can keep your interior impeccable and cosy.
Natural products for cleaning handles