General Care & Cleaning Instructions

General Care

Clean spilled fluid of the outside of the lighter. Lighter fluid can harm some finishes.
Keep up with proper wick and flint maintenance.
Take care when opening and closing the lid, misuse and overuse of the hinge can cause damage.
Do not alter or damage the insert, this could cause the lighter to malfunction.
Use only genuine Zippo lighter fluid, wicks, and flints for optimal performance.

Cleaning Zippo Lighters

Chrome Lighters

How do I clean my Zippo chrome lighter?

High Polish cases: Clean with chrome polish.
Brush finish cases: Gently clean with multi-purpose cleaning such as a light or medium duty Scotch-Brite brand (do not use steel scouring pad).

Carefully rub the pad in the same direction of the grain on the finish.

Brass Lighters

What prevents my Zippo brass lighter from tarnishing?

Each Zippo brass lighter has a lighter protective coating to prevent tarnishing before it is used. The coating will wear off with normal use.

How do I clean my Zippo brass lighter?

To restore the natural patina of solid brass, we recommend the following:

High Polish case: Clean with brass polish.
Brush finish case: Gently clean with multi-purpose cleaning such as a light or medium duty Scotch-Brite brand (do not use steel scouring pad).

Carefully rub the pad in the same direction of the grain on the finish.

Matte/Translucent Colored Lighters

How do I clean my Zippo Matte/Translucent Colored lighter?

Use a soft cloth an a non-abrasive cleaner.

How do I clean the laser engraved brass design on my matte/translucent colored lighter?

The laser design exposes the brass surface which may tarnish. This is a normal characteristic of brass. To clean the brass, we recommend using a soft cloth and brass cleaner.

Sterling Silver Lighters

How do I clean my Sterling Silver Zippo lighter?

Use a soft cloth an a non-abrasive silver cleaner. Or gently clean plated portions with a soft cloth and water.

How do I clean the laser engraved brass design on my matte lighter?

The laser design exposes the brass surface which may tarnish. This is a normal characteristic of brass. To clean the brass, we recommend using a soft cloth and brass cleaner.

Antique Finish Lighters

Will the finish on my antique finish lighter wear off?

The antique finish lighter has a unique finish to give it a used, nostalgic and time-worn look. This finish is not permanent and will begin to wear with use.

How do I prevent the finish on my Zippo antique finish lighter from wearing off?

When exposed to alcohol or lighter fluid, the antiquing will immediately begin to wear. When filling the lighter, avoid spilling lighter fluid on the outer case.