Patina or Polish? How to Care for Brass Hardware

At Ohminme, we choose solid brass hardware for all our dog accessories because it’s strong, durable, and naturally rust-resistant. Plus, it adds a touch of timeless beauty. But like all natural materials, brass develops a patina over time – a fancy way of saying it gets that lived-in, vintage look. If you love that rustic charm, no worries! But if you prefer to keep it bright and shiny, here’s how to care for your brass hardware.

Why Does Brass Tarnish?

Brass is made from copper and zinc, which naturally react to air and moisture, including the natural oils from our skin and your dog’s fur. This reaction causes a patina to form, giving the brass a darker, vintage look over time. This tarnish is completely normal and doesn’t affect the durability or strength of the hardware – it’s purely cosmetic.

How to Clean & Polish Brass Hardware

• Regular Cleaning: To keep grime at bay, simply wipe down the hardware with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water. This helps remove dirt and oils from daily adventures. Just be sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent water spots.
• Polishing for Extra Shine: If you prefer a bright, shiny finish, polish your brass hardware with a brass cleaner. Or, try a natural alternative by making a paste using equal parts lemon juice and baking soda. I personally swear by Bar Keepers Friend – it works wonders with just a cloth (and a soft toothbrush for those hard-to-reach spots). A little goes a long way. Carefully wipe off the cleaner with a clean, damp cloth and then polish it dry.
• After Water Adventures: If your dog's gear takes a dip in water, give it a quick wipe down with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and mineral build-up. This keeps the brass looking its best, even after a beach day with your pup!

Why We Choose Solid Brass

Unlike plated hardware that can flake off, chip, and rust, solid brass is naturally strong, durable, and won’t rust – making it perfect for adventurous dogs. Plus, it’s completely recyclable, plastic-free, and in line with our mission to create earth-conscious dog accessories.

We also choose not to add any chemical coatings to our brass hardware. While some manufacturers use coatings to maintain shine, these coatings eventually wear off unevenly, leading to an unsightly appearance. By keeping our brass natural, we ensure a beautiful, long-lasting look that develops character over time.

With just a little care, your brass hardware will stay beautiful for years, whether you love the lived-in patina or a polished shine. Just remember – if you prefer the shiny look, regular maintenance is key, as the brass will naturally start to patina again once it’s in contact with the elements and oils in your dog’s fur.

Looking for dog gear paired with solid brass hardware? Check out our collars, harnesses, and leads - designed for little dogs and sensitive pups!