Care and cleaning of brass, copper or zinc is a complicated conversation. Start with the terms: patina, aging, distressed, mottled. It's a unique language, but let's focus on two important concepts: "clean" and "polished."

There's a big difference and here's why. Reactive countertops can be a clean surface but still show spots. Polishing will typically remove the spots, but it is likely that new reactions will form.

CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

We recommend allowing the metals to develop a natural patina based on its use. Therefore, it is best to use cleaning techniques and products that fit best with your household or business.

TIPS

• Soft cloth and mild soap

• Scrub and on occasion with an abrasive sponge

• Avoid cleaners with ammonia, bleach, or citric acid.

Products to use

• Spray cleaners or commercial soaps should be tested to see if they darken zinc, copper or brass. We recommend Method Surface Cleaner. Buy it now and have it ready for pick up on your next trip to Home Depot or have it shipped if necessary.

• Metal polish such as Brasso can be used to remove any unwanted spots but we do not recommend trying to maintain a polished finish for countertop surfaces.

• Wax can be used regularly to help slow the reaction process. We recommend this food safe conditioner that works very well.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

The biggest issue with reactive metals, is understanding that a spot can form from a wide variety of things. The first spots will be fingerprints, water marks and maybe a cleaning agent. It is to be expected and the frequency of the spots will depend on how you are using the surface.