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How To Properly Clean Door Knobs & Handles

Door knobs and handles are some of the most frequently touched surfaces in the home, yet they are often overlooked during cleaning. It’s an oversight that shouldn’t continue- not only can they harbor harmful bacteria and germs, but they can also accumulate dirt, grime, and stains over time, making them unsightly and difficult to use. 

Fortunately, keeping them in good condition is neither time-consuming nor difficult. In this article, the residential door specialists at Access Residential Hardware show you how to properly clean your door knobs and handles, using the materials and techniques that keep them looking and functioning at their best.

Materials Needed

Before getting started, you’ll want to assemble all the required cleaning materials. They include:

  • Microfiber cloth or soft cotton cloth

  • Mild soap or detergent

  • Warm water

  • Bucket or container

  • Rubber gloves

  • Disinfectant spray or wipes

  • Paper towels

  • Toothbrush or small brush

  • Screwdriver

Pro Tip: The materials required may vary depending on the type of door hardware and how dirty it is. It's important to use appropriate materials and avoid using abrasive cleaners or rough materials that can scratch or damage the surface.

Be Careful With the Finish!

It’s important to note that different door knob or handle finishes require tailored cleaning solutions to prevent damage or discoloration. Below is an overview of some common finishes and the appropriate materials to use:

  • Brass or Bronze: Use a solution of warm water and mild soap. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners that can scratch or discolor the surface.

  • Chrome or Stainless Steel: You can use warm water and mild soap or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Stay away from abrasive cleaning products that can scratch or dull the finish.

  • Nickel or Satin: Your options for nickel or satin finishes include a solution of warm water and mild soap or vinegar. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can degrade the finish.

  • Glass or Crystal: To clean glass or crystal door knobs or handles, use a solution of warm water and mild soap. Refrain from using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials that can blemish the surface.

  • Ceramic or Porcelain: Use a solution of warm water and mild soap and stay away from abrasive cleaners that can scratch or damage the surface.

  • Painted or Coated: Use a solution of warm water and mild soap to clean painted or coated door knobs or handles. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners that can scratch or strip the paint or coating.

Always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface. If you are unsure about what products you should use to clean your door knob or handle finish, consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional for guidance.

Cleaning Keyed Doors and Levers

Disassembling a door knob or lever can be a little tricky, as you’ll want to avoid causing any damage to the mechanism. Here are the recommended steps for disassembling and cleaning most keyed appliances.

  • Locate and Remove the Screws: Look for the screws on the collar or base of the door knob or handle. They may be visible or hidden behind a decorative cover plate. Once you locate them, remove them using a screwdriver and set them aside.

  • Remove the Knob or Handle: Gently pull the knob or handle away from the door to reveal the inner mechanism.

  • Clean the Parts: Clean the knob or handle and other parts of the mechanism with a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap solution. For stubborn stains or dirt, use a toothbrush or small brush to gently scrub the surfaces.

  • Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, dry the parts thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid rusting.

  • Reassemble the Parts: Place the knob or handle back onto the mechanism and reattach the screws. Don’t over-tighten them, as this can cause damage to the mechanism.

  • Test the Door Knob or Handle: After reassembling, test the door knob or handle to ensure that it is functioning properly.

Note: It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for disassembling and cleaning a door knob or handle. Some materials or finishes may require special care or cleaning solutions. If you are unsure, consult a professional or the manufacturer before attempting to clean the door knob or handle yourself.

Cleaning Keyless Door Knobs and Levers

Battery-powered door knobs and handles are typically easier to clean and maintain than devices hard-wired into a power supply. Here are the steps to take apart and clean the keyless door hardware in your home.

  • Remove Batteries: Before starting, remove the batteries from the hardware to avoid electrical shocks or damage to the components.

  • Locate and Remove the Screws: Look for the screws or fasteners that hold the battery compartment or electronic components in place. Using a screwdriver, remove them and set them aside.

  • Disassemble the Components: Gently pull the battery compartment or electronic components away from the door or handle to reveal the inner workings.

  • Clean the Components: Clean the battery compartment or electronic components with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris. For stubborn stains or dirt, use a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap solution. Avoid using excess water or harsh cleaning solutions that can damage the electronic components.

  • Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, dry the components thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid moisture damage.

  • Reassemble the Components: Carefully place the battery compartment or electronic components back into their original position and reattach the screws or fasteners. Tighten the screws but do not overtighten them, as this can cause damage to the components.

  • Replace Batteries: After reassembling, insert fresh batteries into the battery compartment and test the functionality of the door or handle.

If you are unsure about how to disassemble or clean battery-powered doors and handles, consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional before attempting to do so. It's important to handle the components with care to avoid damage or malfunction.

Disinfecting Your Residential Door Hardware

Regular disinfection is an important part of preventing the spread of germs and viruses, especially during flu season or pandemics like COVID-19. When carrying out your regular household cleaning routine, take the following steps to disinfect your interior and exterior door knobs and handles:

  • Before starting, put on a pair of disposable gloves to protect your hands.

  • Clean the door hardware with soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, or visible debris. Dry the surface with a clean cloth or paper towel.

  • Apply a disinfectant solution to a clean cloth or paper towel, making sure it's saturated but not dripping.

  • Wipe the entire surface of the door hardware with the disinfectant solution, paying special attention to the areas that are frequently touched, such as the knob or handle itself and any buttons or levers.

  • Allow the disinfectant solution to air dry on the surface for the recommended amount of time specified on the label.

It's important to follow the instructions on the disinfectant solution label for proper use and safety precautions. Some disinfectants may require longer contact times or additional protective gear, such as a face mask or eye goggles. Be sure to use disinfectants that are appropriate for the door knob or handle material and finish, as some disinfectants can cause damage or discoloration.

Maintenance Tips for Your Residential Door Hardware

Regular maintenance of your doors and levers can help extend their lifespan and ensure they continue to function properly. Here are some maintenance tips to supplement a cleaning routine:

  • Apply a small amount of lubricant, such as silicone spray or WD-40, to the moving parts of your door and lever to keep them functioning smoothly.

  • Check the screws and fasteners regularly to make sure they are tight. If you find any that are loose, tighten them with a screwdriver.

  • If you notice any damaged or broken parts, such as a loose handle or a worn latch, replace them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

  • If your door is not closing properly, adjust the strike plate by loosening the screws and moving it slightly until the latch fits snugly.

  • Check the alignment regularly and adjust the hinges or door frame as needed.

Is It Time To Replace Your Door Hardware?

While regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your door hardware, eventually it may become worn out, damaged, or outdated and need to be replaced. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to choose high-quality hardware that will not only look great but also function properly and last for many years to come. That's where Access Residential Hardware comes in. 

With a wide selection of keyed and keyless door knobs and door handles available, Access Residential Hardware can help you find the perfect replacement hardware for your doors. Our experienced technicians can provide expert recommendations and we only carry products from industry-leading manufacturers, so if you need to replace your door hardware, don't hesitate to call Access Residential Hardware for professional assistance. For more information or to place an order, please call us at 866.752.9002, or fill out this contact form.