Warranty and General Care Instructions | Hand Crafted Italian Tapware

Designer Italian Tapware Care Guide & FAQs

Our designer Italian tapware – from Italian kitchen taps to luxury bathroom mixers – brings high-end style and craftsmanship into your home. Handcrafted in Italy from premium brass by skilled artisans, these fixtures require simple but careful cleaning to keep them gleaming. This guide provides daily cleaning tips, finish-specific care advice (for brass, chrome, nickel, lacquered and powder-coated taps), and essential notes on installation, water pressure, and warranty to help Australian homeowners maintain their investment.

 

Daily Cleaning & Maintenance

Designer Italian tapware should be cleaned regularly to preserve its finish. Daily care is simple: wipe all fixtures with a soft microfiber cloth and warm, pH-neutral soapy water. Thoroughly rinse and dry taps after cleaning to prevent water spots and mineral buildup. Rinse off any soap, toothpaste or shampoo residue immediately after use to avoid long-term corrosion. Never use harsh chemicals (acidic, bleach, alcohol or citrus cleaners) or abrasive pads, which will dull or scratch the finish.

 

Finish Guide: Types & Care

Electroplated Finishes (Chrome, Polished Nickel, Satin Chrome, etc.)
Hard-wearing and durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then dry to maintain the shine.

Brushed/Matte Finishes (Brushed Chrome, Matt Black, Iron Bronze, etc.)
Gentle cleaning only. Avoid waxes or polishes on matte surfaces, as they will change the appearance.

Stainless Steel (316 Marine Grade)
Naturally rust-resistant, but still prone to water stains. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. For tougher stains, a non-scratch pad can be used along the grain.

Unlacquered Brass (Living Finish)
Will develop a natural patina over time. Clean with mild soap and water. To restore shine, polish sparingly with a non-abrasive brass cleaner, then buff dry.

Aged/Colour-Bronze Brass Finishes
Pre-aged through chemical treatment. These continue to evolve with use. Clean only with warm soapy water.

Lacquered Finishes
A thin clear lacquer protects the brass. Wipe gently with a soft cloth and mild soap. Never use abrasives, which can scratch the coating.

Powder-Coated/Polymer Finishes (Matte Black/White, etc.)
Painted or colour-coated surfaces. Clean with mild soap and water only. Avoid knocks and chips – these are not repairable and not covered by warranty.

 

Hard Water and Limescale

Australian water often carries minerals that leave deposits on tapware. Always dry taps after use and wipe away marks quickly with warm water and a soft cloth. For stubborn limescale, use a mild solution only on unlacquered brass. Avoid acids on plated, matte, or lacquered finishes. Inline filters and properly flushed plumbing will help reduce mineral buildup and extend the life of your tapware.

 

Warranty & Installation Notes

Licensed Plumber Required: Tapware must be installed by a licensed plumber to meet Australian standards and preserve your warranty.

Water Pressure: Keep outlet pressure at or below 500 kPa. If your mains pressure is higher, install a pressure-reducing valve.

Inline Filters and Flushing: Fit fine mesh filters on inlets and flush water lines before installation to prevent debris from entering the cartridges.

Warranty Coverage: Tap bodies are typically covered for up to 15 years. Finishes are not covered; natural patina and minor imperfections are part of authentic craftsmanship.

 

FAQs

1. How do I clean brass tapware and maintain its shine?
Clean brass with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. For unlacquered brass, this will not stop patina developing, which is part of its charm. For added shine, polish gently with a mild brass cleaner, but this will reset the patina.

2. What cleaning products should I avoid on my designer taps?
Avoid abrasives, bleach, ammonia, citrus-based or alcohol cleaners. These will damage finishes. Always use mild, pH-neutral soap with warm water.

3. Can I use vinegar or lemon juice to remove limescale from taps?
Only on unlacquered brass, and only in diluted form, rinsed off immediately. Do not use acids on plated, matte, or lacquered finishes.

4. What are the different tapware finishes, and how do I care for them?
Chrome and nickel are durable and easy to clean. Matte and brushed finishes need gentle care with no polishes. Living brass patinates naturally. Lacquered and powder-coated finishes must only be cleaned with mild soap and water.

5. Should I use a licensed plumber to install my tapware?
Yes. Licensed installation ensures compliance with Australian standards, avoids damage, and keeps your warranty valid.

6. What water pressure is required for my tapware?
Maximum 500 kPa. A pressure-reducing valve must be installed if mains pressure is higher.

7. What does my tapware warranty cover?
Manufacturer’s defects in the tap body, usually for up to 15 years. Consumables and finishes are not covered, as patina and surface variations are expected characteristics of luxury brass tapware.