Care Instructions

All First Impressions International products are made with superior quality materials and meet strict standards. However, it is necessary that the products be cared for during and after installation to aid in their longevity.

Caring for Door Hardware During Installation
The cleaning of new door handles should prevent special problems, although more attention may be required if the installation period has been prolonged. Where surface contamination is suspected, immediate attention to cleaning will promote a trouble-free service life. It’s important to know that these products need constant maintenance or they will appear to tarnish.

Caring for Stainless Steel
There are many advantages with stainless steel, however it is steel, and steel will rust. Regardless of grade, cleaning is paramount, especially in coastal areas. The attractive and hygienic surface appearance of stainless steel products cannot be regarded as completely maintenance free. All grades and finishes of stainless steel may in fact stain, discolor or attain an adhering layer of grime in normal service.
To achieve maximum corrosion resistance the surface of the stainless steel must be kept clean. Frequency and cost of cleaning stainless steel is lower than for many other materials. Surface contamination and the formation of deposits are critical factors, which may lead to drastically reduced life. These contaminants may be minute particles of iron or rust from other non-stainless steel items nearby. Industrial, commercial and even domestic and naturally occurring atmospheric conditions can result in deposits, which can be quite corrosive. An example is salt deposits in marine conditions. Washing with soap and warm water followed by a clean water rinse is usually quite adequate for domestic and architectural conditions. For slight scratches, use medium grit Scotch-Brite pad. Just remember to go with the grain.

Caring for Brass, Plated and Powder-Coated Finishes
To maintain the superior finish of your First Impressions International products, please ensure that only a damp MICROFIBER cloth is used with diluted, mild soap to remove any stains or fingerprints. Residue build-up may cause discoloration of the original finish. To avoid such damage, please wipe products with a damp MICROFIBER cloth, and dry thoroughly. It is recommended that this be done regularly and incorporated into the general cleaning routine in the home.
Do not use harsh solvents, abrasive cleaners or scourers on any of First Impressions International’s products. This may affect the thickness of protective coatings, such as plating, powder coating and lacquer. We recommend a light clean with mineral spirits only for our satin or polished chrome finishes. Do not use mineral spirits on any product with a brass or antique finish, as it may strip away any aesthetic or protective coating. Likewise, powder-coated finishes should be cleaned only with a damp cloth. Note: Powder-coated finishes may chip with rough handling, and therefore caution should be taken during maintenance and use.

Caring for Acrylic
NEVER use window cleaning fluids with ammonia (such as Windex or Formula 409), gasoline, denatured alcohol, carbon tetrachloride, or acetone, which will cause the acrylic to craze with minute cracks. A mild solution of soap and water can be used safely. Begin by gently blowing away any loose dust or dirt from the acrylic’s surface. Apply the soap and water solution with a dampened non-abrasive/non-contaminating/lint-free soft cloth, microfiber cloth or cellulose sponge. Rinse well with clear, clean water. Blot dry with a chamois, damp cellulose sponge or microfiber cloth to prevent water spotting.
Note: Grease, oil and tar may be removed with a good grade of hexane, naptha or kerosene. Be sure to wash these solvents off quickly to prevent damage to the acrylic.

Caring for Natural Wood
All of our Wood is supplied in a Natural Un-Lacquered finish with a protective Paste Wax Coating (Carnauba) unless otherwise noted. Dust Wood weekly with a soft, dry, all-cotton cloth. Don’t use polishes or oils over your coat of protective wax. Re-apply Paste Wax according to the rate of “wear and tear” your grip receives. Avoid waxing engraved areas.

For any further questions, please contact our customer service department at 855-281-0722