Cleaning & Maintenance
General Handling
Handle woven copper surfaces with clean cotton gloves or soft cloth to prevent skin oils and fingerprints from accelerating oxidation. When cleaning, use only soft, non-abrasive materials such as cotton cloths, microfiber, or soft-bristle brushes. Avoid all harsh scouring pads, steel wool, and abrasive cleaners, as these will damage the weave structure and finish.
Dust regularly with a dry, soft cloth to prevent accumulation. For general-purpose cleaning, use distilled water only. For sealed surfaces, a mild soap solution (pH-neutral dish soap with distilled water) may be used with a soft cloth, followed by rinsing with distilled water and immediate drying with a clean, dry cloth.
Open Thread Surfaces
Natural and treated copper surfaces with open thread construction benefit from periodic cleaning to manage patina development and maintain the desired aesthetic. For natural copper surfaces developing patina, light dusting is usually sufficient. If deeper cleaning is desired, use distilled water with a soft cloth, working gently to avoid disrupting fine surface oxidation patterns.
For heat-treated (burned copper) surfaces, dust regularly and use distilled water only for cleaning. Do not use vinegar, ammonia, or acidic solutions, as these will chemically alter the surface finish. The unique markings on each piece represent the heat-treat process and should not be removed through aggressive cleaning.
Coated and Clearcoated Surfaces
Surfaces with polyurethane or lacquer coatings should be dusted regularly with soft, dry cloths. For stains, wipe gently with a cloth barely dampened with distilled water. Do not allow water to pool or sit on the coating, as this can cause marking or clouding. Immediate drying after any water contact is essential.
Chemically patinated surfaces with sealed finishes should be cleaned only with soft, dry cloths and distilled water if needed. Sealed finishes protect the underlying patina from further oxidation and environmental change. Never use solvents, alcohol, or ammonia on sealed surfaces, as these may compromise the protective layer or alter the finish color.
Stain Response
| Stain Type | Response | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerprints | Dry cloth only on open surfaces; mild soap solution on sealed surfaces, followed by distilled water rinse and dry cloth | As needed |
| Water marks | Immediately dry with soft cloth; use distilled water only for rinsing and drying to prevent mineral deposits | Immediately upon appearance |
| Grease or oil | Open Thread: pH-neutral degreaser, soft cloth, rinse, dry. Coated: pH-neutral cleaner, soft cloth, dry | Upon appearance |
| Adhesive residue | Open Thread: Do not use solvent, contact studio. Coated: Do not use solvent, contact studio | Upon appearance |
Disclaimer
Woven copper surfaces are dynamic materials that respond naturally to environmental conditions. Patina development, oxidation, and color evolution on unsealed surfaces are inherent characteristics and not defects. Care recommendations in this guide provide maintenance guidance for preserving the intended finish state. Actual cleaning requirements depend on installation environment, humidity, air quality, and the specific finish applied. For complex cleaning issues or damage to the weave structure, contact studio@maisonjacquard.com for guidance.