General Cleaning Instructions for Metal Finishes
In most instances, wiping with a soft damp cloth and drying with a soft towel is sufficient. Periodic cleaning with a mild soft soap, thoroughly rinsing the surface and drying, will keep the product looking new. BEWARE of “polishing cloths,” which may contain damaging agents.
To remove a built up deposit (such as soap or toothpaste) from within the intricate carvings and details of castings, use a soft toothbrush and water. Gently brush the affected area, rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel. Repeat above steps until the deposit is removed.
To facilitate cleaning and maintain the lustrous finish, apply a fine spray wax such as Pledge or Old English directly onto the fittings. Leave it to soak into crevices until it stops foaming and wipe off excess. Buff the surface with a soft towel.
In addition to the above general cleaning and maintenance instructions, the following are instructions for specific products and finishes:
Patinated Finishes
Antique Gold (AG), Burnished Gold (BG), Burnished Platinum (BP), Oil Rubbed Brass (OB)
A patina is the thin layer that forms on the surface of a metal after it is exposed to the environment. The above finishes were created by accelerating the process that occurs in nature. The patina will continue to change in time as it is exposed to the atmosphere.
To maintain these finishes, follow the above directions for cleaning with an emphasis on the application of a wax to the surface. Wax serves as an excellent protection, sealing the finish off from the atmosphere and elements. The use of polishing agents will damage or remove the patina. Contact with acid based agents will alter the finish.
Silver Finishes
English Silver (ES), Butler Silver (BS).
Sherle Wagner silver finishes are plated with a 99% pure silver plate. The silver plate is the heaviest in the industry and with proper care should last a lifetime.
Both silver finishes will tarnish significantly over time. The finish may be restored to its original luster by using a fine non-abrasive silver polish or cream. The application of a metal protector with an anti-tarnish agent will prolong the time between regular polishing.
Nickel Finishes and Polished Platinum
Brushed Nickel (BN), Polished Nickel (PN), Highly Polished Platinum (HP)
The use of abrasive metal polishes will alter or remove the finish. Use only nonabrasive cleaners. The application of a metal protector will protect the finish from and facilitate in removal of mineral deposits present in your water supply.
In addition to the above cleaning and maintenance instructions you may use a non-abrasive metal polish on the Polished Nickel and Platinum surfaces. Application of a metal protector is recommended.
Chrome Finishes
Brushed Chrome, (BC) and Polished Chrome, (CP), Black Eclipse (BE)
Chrome is the most durable finish available in the plumbing industry. Nevertheless, it requires care in cleaning to maintain the finish. Follow the same procedures used to clean and maintain the nickel finishes.
Polished Gold and Brass
Almond Gold (AL), Rose Gold (RG), Polished Brass (PB)
Special care must be taken to maintain the bright polish of these finishes. As with any highly reflective surfaces, rough or abrasive materials will leave visible scratches and result in dullness.
Other Finishes
Antique Pewter (AP), Gold Plate (GP), Satin Brass – (SB)
Please refer to the general cleaning instructions, above.
Vitreous China (non decorated)
Rinse thoroughly and use a soft cloth to dry after each use. Non abrasive bathroom cleaners may be used. Abrasive cleaners will scratch and dull the glazing.
Decorated China - Gold, Platinum and Hand Painted
Sherle Wagner Gold, Platinum and Hand Painted bowls, pedestal sinks and accessories should be treated the same as your fine hand painted dinnerware. A mild soap and water is all you should use to clean them. Avoid spilling dyes and toiletries that contain strong chemical components onto decorated surfaces. Do not use bristle brushes or abrasive pads, as these will scratch the decorated surfaces. Never use abrasive cleaners. Do not use any solvent, ammonia or acid based cleaners. Do not let any cleaners sit or soak on surface for an extended period of time.
Rinse thoroughly and use a soft cloth to dry after each use. In areas with particularly hard water, periodic cleaning with an appropriate product (there are some available from The Bellinzoni Company) will aid in removing and eliminating water spots. Apply to the surface with a soft clean cloth and rub gently.
Water Closets and Bidets
Soft abrasive cleaners may be used when necessary to clean non-decorated vitreous china products. Strong abrasive cleaners will scratch and dull the surface. Use toilet bowl cleaners on the inside of the bowl only. Do not use in-tank toilet cleaners as they can damage the flush valve or other working parts. Wipe any splashes of cleaner solution from hand painted, plated and enameled surfaces immediately.
Over time, hard water deposits may clog toilet rim holes and trap ways. To clean, purchase a commercial cleaner that’s recommended for the removal of hard water deposits. Follow the instructions on the package.
Marble, Onyx, and Semi Precious Stone
Sherle Wagner stone products are supplied pre-sealed; however, it is recommended that you test the seal at least once a year. Simply apply a few drops of water to the surface. If the water beads, your countertop or sink is maintaining its seal. If the water soaks into the surface, resealing should be considered.
Avoid spilling dyes and toiletries that contain strong chemical components onto the stone surfaces. Clean spills immediately. Use only a mild detergent and warm water to clean. Consider products that seal and restore marble and stone surfaces.
Be careful when selecting cleaning agents. Never use a cleaning agent that contains an abrasive. Marble should be cleaned with neutral or slightly alkaline agents. Acidic products will etch and burn the marble and will be absorbed by the stone destroying the polish. Repeated applications of acidic cleaners will eventually erode and destroy the marble itself.
Carefully investigate the product when a sealer must be used. Many products on the market can change the look of the marble or cause it to erode over the course of several years. The Bellinzoni Company has a wide selection of products for various applications.
Mirrors and Mirrored Cabinetry
Do not use bristle brushes or abrasive pads, these will scratch the decorated surfaces. Never use abrasive cleaners. Do not use any solvent, ammonia or acid based cleaners. Do not let any cleaners sit or soak on surface for an extended period of time.