When you choose wrought iron hardware, you're not just buying a product—you’re investing in craftsmanship, tradition, and materials built to outlast trends. At Old West Iron, our hardware is made to stand the test of time. But even the strongest metal needs a little care now and then to keep it looking—and performing—its best.

Whether you're maintaining a decorative clavo on your front door or structural iron brackets on a timber frame, here’s how to protect your investment and honor the craft behind it.

1. Understand Your Finish

Not all iron finishes are the same—and how you care for them depends on how they were made. At Old West Iron, we offer a variety of finishes, each with its own characteristics:

• Raw or Waxed Iron: Most authentic, often with visible hammer marks. These finishes develop a natural patina over time.

• Black Powder Coat: A durable, modern protective layer that holds up well outdoors.

• Oil-Rubbed Bronze or Antique Finishes: Designed for aged beauty, often dark with reddish or golden undertones.

Know your finish, and care accordingly.

2. Indoor Hardware Care

Most indoor pieces—like towel bars, curtain rods, or door knockers—require little more than light upkeep:

• Dust regularly with a dry cloth or soft brush.

• Avoid harsh cleaners or chemical polishes—these can damage finishes or cause discoloration.

• Use beeswax or mineral oil (food-safe if near kitchenware) to condition raw or waxed finishes and enhance their richness.

Pro tip: For raw iron, a thin coat of clear paste wax once or twice a year can help resist moisture in bathrooms or kitchens.

3. Outdoor Hardware Maintenance

Wrought iron is tough, but exposure to moisture, snow, and sun will wear on even the most rugged pieces. Here's how to keep your exterior hardware in fighting shape:

• Inspect annually for rust or corrosion—especially in high-moisture areas.

• Clean with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly.

• Touch up scratches with black paint or clear enamel to prevent rust from spreading.

• Apply a protective wax or oil in the spring and fall to maintain finish integrity.

🔗 Explore Our Collection of Outdoor-Ready Iron Hardware »

4. What to Do If Rust Appears

Rust isn’t the end of the world—especially if caught early. In fact, a little surface rust can even add to the aged charm of wrought iron. But if you want to clean it up:

• Use a fine steel wool pad or soft wire brush to gently remove surface rust.

• Wipe clean, then dry completely.

• Re-seal the area with wax, oil, or paint to keep moisture out.

Avoid sanding too aggressively—you don’t want to strip away the character or protective layers.

5. Hardware That Lasts a Lifetime

What sets wrought iron apart from mass-produced hardware is its heirloom quality. A properly cared-for iron latch, hinge, or bolt doesn’t just survive—it tells a story. And at Old West Iron, that story begins in the fire of our forge.

We don’t build fast. We build right. So when you care for our ironwork with the same attention we put into crafting it, it’ll reward you with decades of strength and timeless good looks.

Looking to maintain your investment?
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Maddison Mellem
Writing from the forge at Old West Iron