1. Understand Your Fixtures Materials
Not all finishes behave the same when exposed to dry indoor air or sudden temperature changes. For example: - Unlacquered Brass: Will naturally patina, but excessive dryness or neglect may lead to uneven spots. - Polished Nickel & Chrome: More prone to spotting if not wiped dry, especially with temperature shifts. - Matte Black & Bronze Finishes: Can develop a chalky film if exposed to hard water during the winter. Knowing your finish is the first step in tailoring your care routine. Most brands offer detailed care guides—MLD can help you find them for your specific products.
2. Adjust Indoor Humidity Levels
Utah and mountain winters are notoriously dry. Low humidity accelerates wear on faucet seals and can dull finishes. Aim to maintain indoor humidity between 35–50%. Pro tip: Run a humidifier in high-design spaces like powder baths or primary ensuites. Your decorative plumbing—and your skin—will thank you.
3. Prevent Freezing in Secondary Spaces
Decorative plumbing fixtures in guest bathrooms, pool houses, or seasonal homes face a higher risk of freezing. Here’s how to prevent damage: - Shut Off Water Supply: Turn off water lines to rarely-used bathrooms and drain the lines. - Open Fixtures: Leave handles open to allow air circulation and drainage. - Insulate Where You Can: Even behind-the-wall insulation helps—check with your contractor or builder. Don’t risk having a Rohl or Waterworks faucet freeze and crack—it’s expensive and often avoidable.
4. Clean + Condition Weekly
Dry winter air, hard water, and bathroom products can leave build-up on your decorative plumbing. A weekly routine helps keep everything looking showroom-new: - Use Gentle Cloths: Microfiber only—never anything abrasive. - Stick to pH-Neutral Cleaners: Avoid anything citrus-based, vinegar, or bleach. - Dry After Use: Especially in areas with frequent temperature changes.
For unlacquered brass or bronze, consider applying a brand-recommended wax or oil to help maintain a more even patina through the winter.
5. Spa Bath or Steam Shower? Take Extra Steps
High-moisture environments like steam showers or spa-style tubs create microclimates that affect plumbing finishes. Winter adds even more humidity swings. Here’s what to do: - Ventilate the Room: Use exhaust fans even in winter to balance humidity. - Check Seals: Look for signs of condensation or corrosion at fixture bases and valves. - Wipe Down After Steam Use: Prevent long-term finish damage from water spots.
6. Showcasing Decorative Plumbing Through the Seasons
Winter doesn’t have to mean hiding your plumbing. In fact, showcasing thoughtful fixture design through seasonal styling can be a moment of joy in a cold home: - Add evergreen boughs or eucalyptus around freestanding tubs or wall-mounted fixtures. - Pair warm metallic finishes like gold or brass with candles, wood trays, and plush textures. - Rotate out display towels or styling objects with richer, winter tones. These simple updates keep your space feeling intentional—and keep the focus on your fixtures.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of decorative plumbing isn’t just about preventing damage—it’s about protecting your design investment. With a little prep and ongoing care, fixtures from brands like Waterworks, Gessi, and Rohl will maintain their beauty and performance year-round. Need personalized product care advice? Visit the MLD showroom or connect with a product expert—we’re happy to walk you through care kits, finish-specific guidance, or recommended installers.
When temperatures drop, it’s not just pipes in crawl spaces and basements that are at risk—your beautiful, high-end decorative plumbing deserves winter care, too. Brands like Waterworks, Rohl, and Gessi deliver sculptural elegance, and those finishes and components need thoughtful maintenance to stay pristine through seasonal changes.
This blog is your go-to winter checklist for caring for your decorative plumbing fixtures. Whether you’re a designer installing new pieces or a homeowner protecting a luxe renovation, these steps help ensure that your hardware not only survives the cold but sparkles come spring.