Caring for plated furniture metal: cleaning chrome, nickel, gold, rose and smoked finishes
A well-made finish can look new for years, but the wrong cleaning product can spoil it within weeks. This guide gathers simple care rules that keep plated furniture metal looking its best; furniture makers can pass them on to their own customers too.
Daily and weekly care
- Daily: remove dust and fingerprints with a dry, soft microfibre cloth.
- Weekly: wipe with a cloth dampened in lukewarm water and a few drops of neutral liquid soap.
- Rinse: remove soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry: dry the surface straight away; this prevents water spots.
What to avoid
| Avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Scouring powder, cream cleansers, steel wool, hard sponges | They scratch the surface and wear away gloss and the colour coat. |
| Bleach and chlorine-based cleaners | They cause staining and darkening of the finish. |
| Descalers, vinegar and acidic products | They attack the nickel and the colour layer. |
| Acetone, thinners and solvents | They dissolve the protective top coat on gold, rose and smoked finishes. |
| Metal polishing pastes | They wear through the top coat of coloured finishes; use only on chrome, after testing a hidden spot. |
Small differences by finish
- Chrome and nickel: the toughest finishes, but still keep abrasives away.
- Gold, rose and smoked: the colour sits in the protective top layer. Use only soapy water and a soft cloth.
- Antique: the pattern is deliberately uneven; do not try to polish it bright.
Care in use
Feet or glides on table and coffee-table legs prevent wear where the metal meets the floor. In constantly humid rooms such as bathrooms, dry the surface more often. Keep parts from knocking against each other when moving furniture; a deep scratch cannot be touched up and the part will need replating.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use glass cleaner?
Ammonia-based glass cleaners are not recommended, especially on coloured finishes. Soapy water is enough.
How do I remove water spots from chrome?
Wipe with lukewarm soapy water and dry immediately. If a mark remains, test a cleaner made for chrome on a hidden spot first.
Can a scratched gold leg be replated?
Yes. The old finish is stripped, the part is prepared again and replated; contact us to arrange it.
Looking for a durable finish for your furniture?
Tell us about your parts and we will help you choose the right finish.