Raw brass is sold unsealed and untreated. It will develop a patina over time as the surface reacts naturally to air, humidity, and handling. This is not a defect — it is the nature of the material. How quickly it changes depends on your environment and how often it's handled.

• To maintain the raw look: Polish occasionally with Brasso and a soft cloth to keep a lived-in glow.
• For a smoother, more even finish: Apply Paste Wax with a Scotch-Brite sponge, scrubbing in one direction.
• To lock in the look and slow future tarnishing: Seal with a clear lacquer such as Mohawk Lacquer. Once sealed, clean as you would finished brass (see below).
• To remove fingerprints and smudges: Buff with a soft cloth. For more stubborn marks, a small amount of Brasso on a soft cloth will restore the surface.

Finished brass is hand-polished and sealed with a clear coat that protects the surface from oxidation. The goal of care is to preserve that clear coat — once it's compromised, the brass underneath will tarnish.

To clean: Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth dampened with warm (not hot) water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Dry immediately and thoroughly with a clean cloth.

How often: Dust regularly. A thorough wipe-down every few months is sufficient for most indoor environments.

Over time: Clear coats will eventually wear. When they do, the brass will begin to develop a natural patina. At that point you can re-seal with a clear lacquer to restore protection, or let it age naturally into a raw brass finish.

Raw steel is an unfinished base material. It is sold in this state because most customers intend to paint, powder coat, or otherwise finish it themselves. If left untreated, raw steel will rust — especially in humid environments.

Before finishing: Raw steel carries manufacturing oils from the production process. These oils will prevent paint or primer from adhering properly if not removed first. Wipe down all surfaces thoroughly with acetone or a commercial degreaser using a clean lint-free cloth. Allow the surface to dry completely before applying any paint, primer, or coating. Skipping this step is the most common reason paint fails to bond correctly to raw metal.

If leaving raw intentionally: Raw steel develops a patina and rust over time that some customers find desirable for industrial or rustic aesthetics. To slow this process, apply a rust-inhibiting oil or sealant to the surface. Keep dry as much as possible, and dry immediately if moisture exposure occurs.

To clean: Wipe with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Dry completely and immediately — prolonged moisture contact will accelerate rust.

Powder coat is the most durable and lowest-maintenance finish we offer. For indoor fixtures, the care routine is straightforward.

To clean: Wipe with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and warm water. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly.

To clean: Wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with glass cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. Dry thoroughly before reinstalling.

Avoid: Abrasive cloths or pads that will scratch the glass surface.

Acrylic requires a gentler approach than glass. The wrong cleaner can cause cloudiness and fine surface cracks over time.

To clean: Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth dampened with mild soap and warm water. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry gently.

To clean: Spot clean only. Dampen a soft cloth with mild soap and water and dab gently at the affected area — do not rub. Do not saturate the fabric.

Allow to air dry completely before reinstalling. Fabric shades that are reinstalled damp can warp or develop water stains.

For general dust and debris, a soft brush or lint roller works well for routine maintenance between cleanings.

Porcelain is durable but brittle. Handle with care during installation — avoid applying stress to the lamp parts connected to the porcelain and keep the shade clear of anything that could make contact with it during the install process. Always handle with clean, dry hands.

To clean: Wipe with a dry or lightly damp paper towel. For tougher stains, scrub gently in a circular motion using a damp melamine foam pad such as a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.

To clean: Dust only. Use a soft brush, dry microfiber cloth, or lint roller to remove dust and debris.