Ideally you should clean your bit after every use by rinsing it thoroughly with water. This prevents discolorations caused from oxidation and deposits on the surface of the mouthpiece due to saliva or food remains. Bits made of the innovative materials Sensogan and Aurigan contain copper. Due to the natural oxidation process (which is needed to encourage production of saliva) these bits may tarnish and lose its shiny finish after some time. The Sprenger Diamond Paste helps you to clean, maintain and put the sparkle back into tarnished Sensogan and Aurigan bits. The Diamond Paste is kind to the skin, non toxic, non acidic and it contains micro fine polishing granules. To prevent Eggbut or D-Ring bits from squeaking, what may occur from rubbing of metal on metal, we recommend to thoroughly clean, rinse and oil the movable side part e.g. with cooking oil from time to time. Duo or Rubber bits and bits with rubber parts should also be rinsed thoroughly after riding and checked for scratches, sharp edges or teeth marks. Especially if your horse tends to chew on the bit you should check the surface regularly in order to prevent injuries of the tongue and palate. Sprenger accepts no returns because of chew marks on the mouthpiece.