How to Prevent Rubbed Bronze From Rusting

Rubbed bronze is used in many home decor accessories, including door handles, cabinetry and locks. Rubbed bronze is made to last longer than other metals, such as brass and stainless steel, without corroding quickly. However, to prevent rust from settling into rubbed bronze, proper care is required. Rubbed bronze cannot be left alone for long periods, despite its durability. Corrosion can still affect the metal, especially in high humidity.

Instructions

- 1
  Buff your bronze with a soft cloth weekly. This will remove fingerprints and skin oils that could harm the metal. If you do find small traces of rust, a mild scrubber will remove the loose rust and help restore the luster of your fixture.
- 2
  Apply one to two coats of hot oil to protect the surface of your bronze item. Hot oil treatments help prevent water from soaking into the surface of your rubbed bronze. Water causes the metal's elements to break down and corrode quicker. Hot oil will also prevent oxidation that occurs when air comes in contact with the raw metal.
- 3
  Clean your rubbed bronze with a quality bronze cleaner two to three times a week. This will extend the life of the metal by removing harmful surface bacteria that could eat away at it.
- 4
  Buff out any scratches or nicks as they occur. Ignoring damages to the rubbed bronze item will allow for bacteria to set in underneath the metal's top layers and cause irreversible damage. Applying a coat of wax to the scratch or nick will also help prevent this.

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