How to Clean and Prepare Natural Copper

Copper is a stunning, durable material known for its warm, reddish-brown color and classic shine. Over time, however, natural copper can tarnish and accumulate dirt, oils, and grime. Whether you’re working with copper cookware, jewelry, or any other copper items, learning how to properly clean and prepare natural copper is key to maintaining its beauty and ensuring its longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through effective methods for cleaning and prepping natural copper, bringing back its shine and ensuring it’s in top condition.

Why Clean and Prepare Natural Copper?

Natural copper develops a patina as it ages. This greenish or bluish film, called verdigris, is a result of copper reacting with moisture, air, and other environmental factors. While some people appreciate this aged look, others prefer to keep their copper looking shiny and new. Additionally, cleaning and preparing copper can help prevent further tarnishing and ensure that your copper items are safe to use, especially in food preparation and crafting projects.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the following supplies:

• Mild Dish Soap: To remove initial dirt and grime.
• Vinegar: A gentle acidic solution that helps dissolve tarnish.
• Baking Soda: Works as a mild abrasive to polish copper.
• Lemon: Helps in cutting through tough tarnish and provides a natural shine.
• Soft Cloth: For gentle cleaning and polishing.
• Rubber Gloves: To protect your hands during cleaning.

Step 1: Basic Cleaning with Soap and Water

For routine cleaning, it’s best to start with a simple soap and water solution. Here’s how to do it:

1. Mix a Mild Dish Soap Solution: Fill a small basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Soak and Scrub: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the copper. Focus on any dirt, grease, or sticky residues that may have accumulated.
3. Rinse and Dry: Once the surface is clean, rinse the copper item with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft towel. This prevents water spots from forming.

Step 2: Dealing with Tarnish

To tackle tarnish or the beginning stages of verdigris (green patina), you’ll need something a bit stronger. There are several effective methods for cleaning tarnished copper:

Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar

1. Make a Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply the paste to the tarnished areas of your copper item.
3. Use Vinegar for Extra Shine: For a more powerful clean, lightly mist the paste with vinegar. The reaction between the baking soda and vinegar helps to lift the tarnish.
4. Scrub Gently: Using gentle pressure, scrub the tarnish in circular motions. For stubborn spots, allow the paste to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
5. Rinse and Dry: Once you’ve removed the tarnish, rinse the copper with warm water and dry it thoroughly.

Method 2: Lemon and Salt

Lemon is another excellent natural option for cleaning tarnished copper.

1. Cut the Lemon: Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle some salt on the cut surface.
2. Rub the Copper: Gently rub the lemon half directly onto the tarnished copper. The citric acid from the lemon will break down the tarnish, while the salt acts as a gentle abrasive.
3. Rinse and Dry: Once the tarnish is gone, rinse the copper with warm water and dry it with a clean towel.

Step 3: Restoring the Shine

After you’ve removed any tarnish, you’ll want to restore your copper’s natural shine. Here’s how to do it:

1. Polish with a Soft Cloth: Use a clean, soft cloth to buff the copper gently. This will help bring back the warm luster of the metal.
2. Use a Copper Polish (optional): If desired, apply a small amount of commercial copper polish, following the product instructions for the best results. Be sure to choose a non-toxic option if you plan to use the copper for cooking or food storage.

Step 4: Preparing Copper for Long-Term Use

To prevent tarnishing and keep your copper items looking their best, it’s important to prepare them for long-term use:

1. Apply a Protective Coating: Consider applying a thin layer of wax or a specialized copper sealant to protect the surface from the elements. This creates a barrier between the copper and air, reducing the likelihood of tarnishing.
2. Storage Tips: Store your copper items in a cool, dry place, away from excess moisture. If you’re storing copper cookware, avoid stacking them on top of one another, as this can cause scratches and damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning and preparing natural copper doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily maintain the beauty and longevity of your copper items. Whether you’re cleaning copper jewelry, cookware, or decorative pieces, following these steps will help restore their natural shine and keep them looking stunning for years to come.