How to Clean Exterior Door Handles : 4 DIY Proven Methods

Last Updated on November 12, 2022

Suddenly, your beautiful shining door handles look dull and filthy. Or maybe you just moved into a new home and want to make sure the door handles are clean before you start using them. Either way, you’ll need to clean your exterior door handles.

You could use a commercial cleaner, but why not save some money and make your own solution? It’s easy to do, and you probably have the ingredients already in your home. The problem is that you might have no idea how to clean exterior door handles using the home remedy methods.

You have come to the right place. With the help of this guide, you will be able to learn different recipes and methods for cleaning door handles quickly and effectively.

How to Clean Exterior Door Handles Using : Simple Solutions

Exterior door handles are one of the first places where debris can build up. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to a build-up of bacteria that can transfer to your hands. Due to this, it is indispensable to keep these areas clean.

There are several ways to clean outside door handles, but some methods are easier than others. We are about to outline some of the most popular and effective methods so that you can choose the one that is right for you.

1. Use Vinegar:

Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including metals. If you’re seeking an easy and effective way to wash your door handles, vinegar may be the answer. To clean your door handles with vinegar, follow the instructions below:

Instructions:

• Start by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar in a bowl or bucket.
• Next, dip a clean cloth or sponge into the mixture and wring it out so that it is damp but not dripping.
• Rub the damp cloth or sponge over all surfaces of the door handle, cleaning all nooks and crannies thoroughly.
• Allow the vinegar solution to air dry on the door handle for at least five minutes.
• Repeat steps 2-4 if necessary.
• Once the door handle is dry, you can spray it with an all-purpose cleaner or polish for extra shine.

2. Use Baking Soda:

Baking soda is an effective and gentle cleaner for many different surfaces, including metal door handles. It is also a natural deodorizer, so it can help to remove any bad smells that may be coming from your door handles. If you want to make your door handles look great by using baking soda, follow the steps below:

Instructions:

• Mix one part baking soda with two parts water to form a paste.
• Apply the paste to the handles of the doors by wiping them clean.
• Rub the door handles gently with the cloth in a circular motion until they are clean.
• After rubbing the door handles, rinse them with clean water and pat them dry with a towel.

3. Use Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a powerful disinfectant used to clean various surfaces. The active ingredient in rubbing alcohol is isopropyl alcohol, which 70% isopropyl alcohol solution is most effective at killing bacteria.

Isopropyl alcohol works by denaturing bacterial proteins and dissolving their lipids, which disrupts the cell membranes and prevents the bacteria from growing. Here is the process of cleaning the door handles using rubbing alcohol.

Instructions:

• Pour some rubbing alcohol into a small bowl.
• Dip a sponge or cloth into the rubbing alcohol and then wipe down the door handles.
• If there is any build-up on the door handles, use a toothbrush to scrub it off.
• Rinse door handles under running water and then dry them with a clean cloth.

4. Use Lemon Juice

There are plenty of ways to clean metal, but using lemon juice is definitely one of the best. The acid in lemon juice helps to break through rust, dust, and mineral stains, leaving the metal shiny and clean. And because lemon juice is a natural cleaning agent, it won’t damage the metal as some chemical cleaners can.

Instructions:

• First, start by squirting some lemon juice onto a clean cloth.
• Then, using circular motions, rub the lemon juice into the knob so that it is evenly coated.
• Next, using a second clean cloth, buff the doorknob until it shines.
• This process should be repeated as needed to keep the door handles clean and free of dust.

5. Use Toothpaste

Believe it or not, toothpaste isn’t just for cleaning your teeth. This surprising household staple can be used for cleaning various things around your home. As a mild abrasive, toothpaste effectively removes scuffs and stains from surfaces.

And, because toothpaste is so easily accessible, toothpaste is the most convenient go-to cleaner for small items like door handles and light switches.

Instructions:

• Squirt a pea-sized amount of toothpaste into your hand and rub it into the door handle in small circular motions. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the handle.
• Once you’ve covered the handle with toothpaste, use an alternative clean cloth to wipe away any excess toothpaste.
• Use the third cloth to buff the door handle until it shines.

You may need to repeat this process if there is still dust remain on the handle.

As soon as your door handle is clean, you can enjoy the fresh, new look of your home. And with these simple tips, you can ensure that the handles of your doors look new for years to come. Be sure to use these tips the next time your door handles are in need of a good cleaning.

Tips for keeping your door handles clean in the future

You may have cleaned your door handles, but you don’t want them to get dirty again. It’s important to take some preventative measures to maintain door handles clean. It only takes a few minutes to do, but it will make a big difference in the long run.

Here are some recommendations on how to maintain the cleanliness of your door handles:

• Use a Protectant: All you need is a can of protectant and a soft cloth. Simply spray the protectant onto the door handle and then wipe it off with the cloth. The protectant will form a protective barrier that will help protect the door handle from becoming damaged. The next time you go for a deep clean of your door handles, they will be as good as new.
• Keep them Covered: In order to keep handles looking new, it is important to clean them regularly and to keep them covered when not in use. Aside from that, covering door handles during non-use can help to protect them from damage.
• Cover The Handle: Door handle covers are available in a variety of materials, including cloth and plastic. By choosing a durable cover, you can help enhance the appearance of your door handles long-term.
• Clean them Regularly: The best way to maintain a clean door handle is to clean them on a regular basis. Don’t wait until they are visibly dirty to clean them. Instead, wipe them down with a damp cloth every week or so. And be sure to clean them with a protectant every few months.
• Inspect them Regularly: Along with one-time cleaning of your door handles, you should also inspect them regularly. Look for any signs of wear or tear.

If you see any damage, be sure to repair it right away. It will be much easier to repair a door handle that is only slightly damaged than it will be to replace one that has been completely ruined.

FAQs

You may encounter some problems when working with cleaning processes. Let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about cleaning door handles. This may prove to be useful to you.

1. Can I use a harsh cleaner on my exterior door handles?

The problem with harsh cleaners is that they can damage the finish on door handles. They can also eat away at the polymer or metal the handles make. As a result, it’s best to avoid using harsh cleaners on door handles on the exterior of your home.

Instead, opt for a milder cleaner that won’t cause any damage. Mild cleaners are just as effective at cleaning grime, but they won’t damage your door handles. So if you’re looking to keep your door handles in good condition, stick to mild cleaners. Your door handles will thank you for it.

2. Is it necessary to protect the door hardware when I clean the exterior door handles?

The door is made of a material that is designed to be durable, but it is not indestructible. If you are cleaning the door handle, you are likely to use a cleaning solution that is too harsh for the door. This can damage the door and make it more challenging to open and close. As well, it is likely that you will scratch the door when you clean it.

This can also damage the door knob causing it to be difficult to use. Due to this, it is imperative that you protect the exterior doors when you clean the handles of the exterior doors. You can do this by using a soft cloth or a sponge. You should also be careful not to use too much pressure when cleaning the door lock.

3. Do I need to remove the door handle before I clean it?

It depends on the type of door handle you have. If it’s a screw-on type, you’ll have to take out the screws before you can clean the surface properly.

Then again, if it’s a snap-on type, then you should be able to clean around the edges without having to take the handle off. In either case, make sure to put the screws back in place once you’re done cleaning, or else the door handle may become loose over time.

4. Can I use a power washer to clean my door handles?

Unfortunately, power washers are not a good idea when it comes to cleaning doors. Exposing the handles to high-pressure water damages the finish of the handles, making them more susceptible to corrosion and wear in the future. So when cleaning your door handles, it’s best to stick with mild dish soap and water solution.

Conclusion

Several home items are available for cleaning exterior door handles, and you can use them to achieve a beautiful and lasting result. Even so, it is essential to understand that not all products are safe for all types of door handles. Consider using a safe product for your door handle, such as what we have listed above.

Now that you know how to clean exterior door handles, it’s time to get out there and do it. Be sure to follow the tips we’ve outlined above, and you’ll have no problem keeping your door handles looking new.

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