Yes, polished nickel does tarnish. Often referred to as a "living finish", it naturally oxidizes over time, developing a soft, hazy patina. It is also highly susceptible to water spots and oils from touch, which can dull its mirror-like shine.
Long-Lasting
With proper care and regular maintenance, polished nickel can look as good as it did on day one, and bathroom faucets can last 15 to 20 years.
Colour Changes: As oxidation progresses, the colour of the nickel finish may subtly shift. Polished nickel might take on a slightly warmer tone, while brushed nickel may become darker and more muted.
Avoid using abrasive cleaning products including towels, sponges, cleaning sprays, sanitisers, bleach etc. Avoid letting water sit on polished nickel surfaces for extended periods. Standing water can cause water spots or mineral deposits, which can be difficult to remove and may damage the finish over time.
Why Glass Cleaner Damages Polished Nickel. There are several types of glass cleaners, but many contain ammonia (like the original blue Windex) or other corrosive solvents. These chemicals are fine to use on glass but can weaken nickel plating, ultimately damaging the finish or causing it to peel.
For regular maintenance of polished nickel, mild dish soap and warm water are best. For deeper cleaning and restoring shine, top metal polishes like Flitz Multi Purpose Metal Polish Liquid, Brasso Metal Polish, and Wright's Silver Cream are widely trusted.
Yes, you can use WD-40 to clean, shine, and polish metals like aluminum, chrome, and brass. It is excellent for breaking down grime and removing oxidation, though you should pair it with an abrasive pad for the best results.
No, you should not use Bar Keepers Friend on polished nickel. Because polished nickel is a delicate, thinly-plated finish, abrasive cleansers and acids can easily scratch the surface, strip the protective lacquer, or discolor the metal.
Be sure to avoid using acid, alcohol, or solvent-based cleaners. These types of cleaners can ruin or discolor the more delicate surface of the brushed nickel finish. Vinegar is a popular faucet cleaning solution, but should be avoided on brushed nickel.
Polished Nickel has a silver tone that tends to the warmer side of the color spectrum. It is a composition of nickel plating on brass that has been polished to a high sheen. Pat dry after use to avoid hard water spots. Clean using liquid soap and water or a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar.
How to clean tarnished polished nickel
TIMELESS KITCHEN FINISHES
When it comes to faucet finishes, look to Arctic® Stainless or Polished Nickel. Arctic Stainless finish is the classic's classic, tried and true in presentation and tone.
It's timeless, yes — but with a softer, more sophisticated depth that works beautifully across both modern and classic interiors.
Polished nickel ages gracefully by developing a warm, lived-in patina over time. Rather than tarnishing harshly, its bright, mirror-like gleam gradually softens, bringing out subtle golden undertones that give it an elegant, antique silver appearance.
One of the best ways to make polished nickel hardware stand out is to pair it with dark tones. Deep, rich colors like navy blue, charcoal gray, or even black create a stunning contrast that highlights the striking mirrored finish of the hardware.
Polished nickel is not necessarily hard to clean, but it is high-maintenance. It develops a natural tarnish over time, shows fingerprints and water spots easily, and is prone to light scratching. However, with a consistent wiping routine, it is relatively easy to maintain its warm, mirror-like shine.
Why Glass Cleaner Damages Polished Nickel. There are several types of glass cleaners, but many contain ammonia (like the original blue Windex) or other corrosive solvents. These chemicals are fine to use on glass but can weaken nickel plating, ultimately damaging the finish or causing it to peel.
To keep your Polished Nickel fittings looking shiny we recommend polishing with a proprietary brand of silver polish (we use Autosol or Silvo which are generally available from local DIY stores).
Rinse thoroughly either under running water or with a cloth soaked in clean cool water. Use a baking soda paste for stubborn stains or tarnish. The amount of baking soda you'll need depends on how large the stain is. Add just enough water to form a thick paste.
To remove water spots from polished nickel, gently clean the surface with a 50/50 mix of warm water and distilled white vinegar. Buff with a soft microfiber cloth, rinse with warm water, and dry completely. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners (like Windex), which will permanently damage or peel the polished finish.
Stainless steel and brushed nickel are the most popular and practical finishes for kitchen faucets. Both options are highly durable, resist tarnishing, and excel at hiding fingerprints and water spots.
Abrasives to Remove Hard Water Stains
Many window cleaners prefer Bronze Wool over Steel Wool for the simple fact that it lasts longer and does not rust. Either option will work though. For milder stains, a scrubbing pad and a bit of elbow grease and buffering can go a long way!
The most effective way to clean aluminum oxidation on trucks is by using a low pH presoak cleaner or acid-based aluminum cleaner. Acid breaks down oxidation and mineral buildup. For best results, follow with a high pH alkaline soap as part of a two-step truck wash.
Yes, Coke can remove rust. It works because it contains phosphoric acid, which breaks down iron oxide.
While WD-40 is a great multipurpose solvent, it is a poor long-term lubricant and should never be used on items that require specialized lubricants, come into contact with food, or are made of sensitive plastics and rubber.