What PVD coating actually is
Physical vapour deposition (PVD) bonds an extremely thin, hard colour layer to the steel surface — far more durable than paint, but it's still a surface layer that benefits from gentle care rather than aggressive cleaning.
Do
- Wipe with a soft cloth and mild soapy water
- Dry after cleaning to avoid water spotting, same as any stainless finish (see our maintenance guide)
- Use a PVD-safe or stainless-specific cleaner for stubborn marks
Avoid
- Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool — these can visibly scratch through the coating
- Bleach or strong acidic/alkaline cleaners
- Aggressive polishing compounds meant for bare metal, not coated surfaces
If it does get scratched
Unlike bare steel, a scratched PVD coating can expose a visible colour difference at the scratch point — this isn't repairable by simple polishing the way a scuff on hairline steel might be. Handle PVD-finished pieces carefully during installation and any future work nearby.