Copper Care and Cleaning

Copper is a very popular metal, not only because it looks so great, but because it is strong & versatile. It is also very durable and will last many years. Copper will tarnish over time as it reacts with the air and it will also develop a patina. That patina will be different depending on whether the item is inside or outside.

Indoors, copper will gradually reach a dark antique color of penny brown. With exposure to rain, the patina will eventually turn to verdigris - a bluish green - a look many people find desirable (think of a copper roof or the Statue of Liberty). So, if you want the patina-look, minimal cleaning is required and you would forego any polishing.

Cleaning

Dusting and occasional cleaning with warm soapy water can often be enough for copper. There are many products available that you can use to clean copper, or you can make your own cleaner from ingredients you probably keep on hand.

Before cleaning determine if your product is lacquered. If it is lacquered, please follow the instructions from the manufacturer because polishing may ruin the lacquer.

Store Bought Cleaning Products

Most cleaners are fast and easy, but carefully follow instructions. Wenol All Metal Polish, Bar Keeper's Friend, Wright's Copper Cream and Brasso are just a few.

Home Made Solutions

These are some very easy ways to clean copper:

Ketchup - Smear ketchup all over the area, Leave for 5-10 minutes and rinse clean, and dry.
Lemon halves & salt - Dip half a lemon into salt and gently rub across the copper. Rinse and dry.
Lemon juice & salt paste - Make a paste of lemon juice and salt (or baking soda), dip a cloth into paste, rub gently, rinse and dry.