Quick answer: Stainless steel is tough, but no metal card is scratch-proof. Everyday use can leave fine marks, especially on mirror finishes. The good news is that care is easy. Wipe it with a soft cloth, keep it away from keys and coins, and avoid harsh cleaners. Here is how to keep your metal card looking sharp.
Do metal cards scratch?
Yes, they can, but it depends on the finish. Stainless steel is hard and holds up well to daily use. Even so, a card rubbing against keys, coins or other cards will pick up tiny marks over time. Fine scratches show up most on a bright mirror finish. Matte and brushed finishes hide them better but show fingerprints more. Our laser engraving is cut into the metal, so it will not peel or wear off the way printed designs can.
How to clean a metal card
- Wipe it dry first. Use a soft microfibre cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Use a lightly damp cloth for dirt. A little mild soap and water on the cloth is enough. Do not soak the card.
- Dry it straight away. Use a clean, dry cloth so no water sits around the chip.
- Buff gently. Wipe in one direction, along any brushed lines, with light pressure.
Do not use abrasive pads, scouring powder or strong chemicals. They can scratch the surface or dull the finish.
How to protect your card from scratches
- Give it its own slot. Keep it in a card slot or sleeve, away from keys and coins.
- Avoid loose pockets. A wallet slot is safer than a pocket full of metal.
- Do not bend it. Metal cards are strong, but sharp bending can damage the card or the chip area.
- Keep it dry. Wipe away water, and do not leave it in damp places.
Care tips by finish
Mirror and polished finishes
They look stunning but show fine marks most easily. Clean with a soft cloth only. See the Mirror Platinum AMEX.
Gold finishes
Handle them like any polished metal. Wipe fingerprints with a soft cloth and keep them away from harsh chemicals. See the 24K Gold AMEX Metal Card.
Black and matte finishes
They hide scratches well but show fingerprints. A quick wipe with a dry microfibre cloth keeps them looking clean. See the Black Centurion AMEX Metal Card.
Brass
Brass can darken slowly over time, as brass does. Wipe it gently with a soft cloth. The Dubai Royal Card is solid brass.
Contactless cards with a plastic back
A contactless card has a metal front and a plastic back that is printed, not engraved. Wipe the back gently and avoid rubbing it hard, so the print stays clean. Read How Contactless Metal Cards Work to learn why the back is plastic.
Not sure which finish to pick?
If scratches worry you, choose a matte or brushed finish. If you love a bright shine, choose mirror and accept that it needs a little more care. Our guide Black, Gold, Mirror, or Brass: How to Choose the Right Metal Card Finish can help. You can also see the build details on our Specs and Quality page.
Frequently asked questions
Do metal cards scratch easily?
Stainless steel is tough, but fine scratches can appear from keys, coins and other cards. Mirror finishes show them most. Matte and brushed finishes hide them better.
How do I clean a metal card?
Wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth. For dirt, use a slightly damp cloth with a little mild soap, then dry it straight away. Avoid abrasive pads and strong chemicals.
Will the engraving wear off?
Laser engraving is cut into the metal, so it will not peel or fade like a print.
Does brass change colour?
It can darken slowly over time, as brass does. A gentle wipe with a soft cloth helps.
Can I use my metal card every day?
Yes. It is built for daily use. Give it its own card slot and it will keep its look for a long time.
Browse the American Express-inspired collection
Solaris Metal Cards designs are inspired by well-known card styles. We are not affiliated with, or endorsed by, any bank or card network.
