You can continue as normal, but matt black requires a different approach to cleaning than regular baths and basin taps with metallic finishes.
A mistake with a chemical cleaner product can lead to a loss of the perfect matt black finish and the destruction of your bathroom space.
To save yourself from disaster, continue reading to find out how to clean black bathroom faucets and maintain that chic dark noir looks you have been imagining!
You probably know that matt black taps are different from standard bathroom tap designs. We don't mean just the color.
Contrary to their chrome counterparts, matte black taps have a matte black finish and absorb light rather than reflect it.
Your black taps will be more sensitive to the matt finishes than standard brassware. Therefore, it is important that you don't just pick the first cleaner that you see.
You can achieve a stunning matt black finish using a variety of techniques. Most manufacturers use either electroplating or a PVD process.
Other ranges have painted coatings that are equally durable. Some techniques can also be combined to create a dark, sophisticated finish.
Electroplating
Electroplating is a scientific method of transferring black to the brassware and taps.
This involves water-based paint being modified at the atomic level with an electric current, which transforms it into a thin black coating.
This provides a durable finish that can withstand everyday wear and tear. However, you need to be careful when cleaning.
PVD - Physical Vapour Deposition
PVD can be compared to using a vacuum to apply a thin layer of metal to its surface.
It is more popular than electroplating because it produces a stronger matt black finish.
Both finishes can enhance the quality of your black taps. However, harsh disinfectants and chemical cleaners can cause damage to any black finish.
It is important to take the time to understand how to care for black taps, no matter when they are finished. This will allow you to extend their life and maintain that look you love.
How Do You Clean Matt Black Taps?
You may be concerned about causing damage by black tap cleaning mistakes, but it is really easy to clean black taps and brassware. It just requires a little more thought and care.
There are some things you should remember before you start.
The following are not recommended for cleaning black bathroom taps.
Scourers or anything abrasive/scratchy
Chemical-based cleaners
Bleach
Polish or wax
Anything acidic, like homemade lemon spray
These dark taps should be your pride and joy!
They're stylish and delicate - not stainless steel saucepans!
Black Taps to Clean
Warm water and a microfiber cloth are all you need to clean your black taps.
Make sure to clean the tap from top-to-bottom gently, but not too hard.
Can Black Taps Be Scratched?
They can, in short.
You are not allowed to use sharp objects to scratch your designer taps, just like you do with your car.
You wouldn't do it, but rings can cause problems with matt black taps, something that we all forget about from time to time.
You don't have to take out your rings completely when you use your black taps. Just be more mindful of them and avoid scratching the tap's surface.
What are O-Ring Stains and How Do They Work?
After your black new tap has been in place for a while, it is normal to notice that they are stained from the grease used to the O-ring.
This grease is between the faucet's bottom and the top of the basin or bathtub.
This can be removed with warm soapy water. However, if it is still stubborn you can use an alcohol cleaner.
Be careful when installing
Brassware and taps are most often damaged during construction and renovation phases. This is basically when the item is being installed.
Make sure you inspect your black taps immediately after they arrive in the box. They should be perfect and free of any imperfections.
You or the tradesperson who installed the tap should take extra care in handling and installing it. These are high-end bathware items that you want to preserve.
What Does Hard Water Do to Black Taps?
Because hard water causes more limescale.
Limescale, a chalky white color, will stand out on any black brassware. You need to maintain that look for longer.
Regular cleaning is enough to keep limescale at bay.
Take extra care when applying makeup
It's almost certain that the makeup you use in the bathroom will end up on your black taps.
These particles can make black taps look cloudy if they aren't wiped off quickly enough. It is a good idea, therefore, to get rid of any offending powder, to have a microfiber cloth handy.
How about cleaning other black brassware?
If you have black taps in the bathroom or en suite, you will most likely have a black showerhead and/or other accessories.
Are you required to use the same cleaning techniques?
Yes, you can if they want to keep their good looks.
You will have a luxury black bathroom that lasts longer, regardless of whether it is a wall-hung or freestanding bath tap.
What will you do with black?
While brassware and black taps may require more attention than other finishes we don't want to be discouraged.
Keep cleaning simple and your matt black taps will look amazing for many years.
