Cody Casey
Copper pans are beautiful and elegant, but they can be a challenge to maintain. Over time, copper pans can become tarnished and covered in oxidation, which can be unsightly. However, it is possible to restore copper pans to their original shine without using harsh chemicals. There are several methods for stripping copper pans of tarnish and oxidation, including using commercial copper cleaners, natural ingredients like lemon juice, salt, and vinegar, or a combination of acid and salt. Some people even use ketchup or a slurry made of vinegar, salt, and flour. Others recommend a simple soap and water solution, or soaking the pan in hot, soapy water to remove stuck-on food. To prevent future tarnishing, some people recommend creating a barrier between the copper and the air using a thin layer of wax coating or oil.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning with natural ingredients
Copper is a soft metal that adds warmth and elegance to any room. However, it requires more care than other materials, as grime can easily build up. Copper naturally develops a patina over time, which some people find desirable. If you prefer to maintain the original shine, regular cleaning is necessary.
Lemon and Salt
Cut a fresh lemon in half and sprinkle a generous amount of table salt onto the lemon. Gently rub the salted lemon onto the tarnished areas of the copper pan. Repeat with the other lemon half if needed. After treating all tarnished areas, rinse the pan with water to remove any residue and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Lemon, Salt, and Flour
Make a thin paste with lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of salt, and enough flour to make it spreadable. Apply this paste to the copper pan and rinse and buff to a shine after. The flour gives a bit more scrubbing power.
Vinegar and Salt
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water with 1 tablespoon of salt. Dip a microfiber cloth into the vinegar solution and gently rub it onto the tarnished areas of the pan, applying light pressure and moving in a circular motion. For stubborn stains, let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. After treating the stains, rinse the pan with water and dry it with a microfiber cloth.
Ketchup
Apply a layer of ketchup to the copper pan and rub the condiment all over the surface. Ketchup contains vinegar and citric acid from tomatoes, which help remove tarnish. Rinse and dry the pan after.
Unscented Ammonia
If there is burnt-on food on the surface of the pan, fill it with water and bring it to a boil on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat and add a generous amount of unscented ammonia. Leave the pan outside or in a well-ventilated area for 24 to 48 hours. Then, dump out the ammonia solution and rinse the pan with warm water.
Vinegar, Baking Soda, Salt, and Aluminium Foil
If there is a buildup of tarnish on your copper pan, this method can help brighten it. Use a wooden spoon to submerge a piece of aluminium foil in the pan. Combine boiling water, baking soda, and salt in the pan and let the solution rest for 15 to 30 minutes. Remove the aluminium foil, rinse the pan, and dry it with a clean cotton cloth.
Please note that before cleaning copper, it is important to check if the piece has a lacquer finish, as the cleaning methods change depending on its presence. Also, avoid air-drying copper as it can result in water stains or tarnish from the reaction of the minerals in the water.
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Commercial copper cleaners
Copper pans are amazing heat conductors, allowing for uniform temperature distribution across the pan. However, they can be a bit finicky to clean and require proper care. Copper pans need to be cleaned after every use, especially if food is stuck on or burnt. The easiest way to clean copper is often the gentlest, as scrubbing too hard can scratch the metal and remove the finish.
There are various commercial copper cleaners available that can help remove burnt residue from your copper pans. These commercial copper cleaners are often more expensive than natural alternatives but can be more effective for tough jobs. Here are some recommended commercial copper cleaners:
- Bar Keepers Friend: This commercial cleaner is popular, inexpensive, and easy to find at many retailers. It is also available on Amazon. When using this product, it is important to follow the directions carefully to avoid damaging the copper by rubbing too hard or leaving the paste on for too long.
- Wright's Copper Cream: Wright's Copper Cream is another popular option that uses a combination of citric acid and ammonium chloride. It has a mild, non-scratching formula that is safe for copper and leaves behind a protective coating to prevent future tarnishing.
- Matfer Bourgeat Bistro Copper Cleaning Paste
- Mauviel Copperbrill
- Flitz Paste Polish
- Red Bear Copper and Brass Polish
When using commercial copper cleaners, it is important to wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation and dryness. Rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water and dry it with a cloth after cleaning. Additionally, be sure to remove any leftover cleaner or polish from the nooks and crannies of the pan, as this can cause verdigris, a greenish-blue encrustation, to form.
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Removing verdigris
Verdigris is a greenish-blue or aqua green coating that can develop on copper and its alloys, such as bronze and brass. It is caused by the exposure of copper to atmospheric moisture, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and water over time. This process is called oxidation, and the chemical name for verdigris is copper carbonate. Verdigris can affect the quality of the copper by weakening its structure and causing pitting on its surface. Therefore, it is important to remove verdigris and prevent copper items from tarnishing.
Before cleaning copper, it is important to determine the degree of oxidation and carefully select the appropriate cleaning agents. Light verdigris can often be treated with simple household remedies, such as natural acids like vinegar, lemon juice, lime juice, or orange juice. These natural acids can be combined with salt to create a paste or a slurry for a more effective cleaning solution. For more stubborn verdigris, a soft brush can be used together with warm water and a mild soap or a natural cleaner. It is important to dry copper items thoroughly after cleaning, as moisture speeds up the rate of tarnishing.
For deeper oxidation, stronger agents may be required, such as commercial copper cleaners or ammonia solutions. Commercial copper cleaners often contain strong acids or ammonia and should be used with caution, following the directions carefully to avoid damaging the copper. Similarly, ammonia solutions should be used with a respirator and in a well-ventilated area due to the strong fumes produced.
To prevent verdigris from forming, it is important to keep copper items dry and protect them from humidity. Polishing copper regularly with a microfiber cloth and natural acids or commercial copper cleaners can also help to keep tarnish at bay. Additionally, lacquered copper items are protected by a shiny, glossy finish that serves as a protective layer against discolouration and makes the copper easier to clean.
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Preventing tarnish
Copper pans are a beautiful addition to any kitchen, but they do require a little extra care to keep them looking their best. Tarnish is a natural process that occurs when copper is exposed to oxygen, water, and air over time. While it is not harmful, it can be unsightly and may cause your copper pans to lose their shine and lustre. Here are some tips to prevent tarnish and keep your copper pans looking like new:
Regular Cleaning:
Firstly, it is important to clean your copper pans after each use. Use a mild dish soap and warm water with a soft sponge to gently remove any food residue or grime. Be sure to dry your pan thoroughly, especially the copper exterior, as moisture speeds up the tarnishing process.
Natural Cleaners:
Natural ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, and salt can be used to effectively remove tarnish and maintain the appearance of your copper pans. Apply a natural cleaner, such as lemon juice and salt, or create a simple slurry of vinegar, salt, and flour. Gently rub the solution onto the copper surface and rinse with warm, soapy water. Follow this by thoroughly drying your pan with a clean cloth.
Polishing:
Polishing your copper pans every six months with a specialty copper cleaner and a microfiber cloth will help to prevent tarnish and maintain their shine. You can also use natural acids like lemon juice or white vinegar as an alternative to commercial copper cleaners. Always spot-test these products first and follow the directions carefully to avoid damaging the copper surface.
Oil and Wax Coatings:
Applying a light coat of baby oil, mineral oil, or butcher's wax after cleaning can create a barrier that seals the copper from air exposure, slowing down the tarnishing process. Ensure you wipe away any excess oil or polish from the nooks and crannies of your pan to prevent verdigris, a greenish-blue encrustation, from forming.
Proper Storage:
Proper storage is essential to preventing tarnish. Avoid placing your copper pans in areas with direct sunlight, excessive humidity, or exposure to pollutants. If storing in a cabinet, consider wrapping them in acid-free tissue paper or cloth to prevent tarnishing caused by contact with other materials.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively prevent tarnish and maintain the beauty and functionality of your copper pans for years to come. Remember, copper is a sensitive material, so always treat it with care and avoid using abrasive products or scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the finish.
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Lacquered vs. unlacquered copper
Lacquered and unlacquered copper have distinct characteristics, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Lacquered copper is treated with a clear coating, often made of plastic, that protects the metal from oxidation and tarnishing. This coating helps maintain the original sheen and colour of the copper, and also makes it easier to clean. Lacquered copper is ideal for those who prefer a consistently clean and polished look, as it shields the underlying metal from air and moisture that lead to tarnishing. However, one of the drawbacks of lacquered copper is that it prevents the metal from developing a natural patina, which some people may desire for a more antique or vintage look.
On the other hand, unlacquered copper is raw brass without any protective coatings. This means that it will gradually oxidise and develop a patina over time, especially in areas that are frequently touched or exposed to air and moisture. This patina can range from deep golden to brownish tones, adding a layer of depth and character to the metal. The natural aging process of unlacquered copper is highly valued by those who appreciate an authentic, lived-in look. However, unlacquered copper requires more maintenance than its lacquered counterpart, as regular cleaning and periodic polishing are necessary to maintain its appearance.
When it comes to copper pans specifically, it is important to determine whether they are lacquered or unlacquered before cleaning. Lacquered copper pans can be simply wiped down with a soft cloth and mild dish soap, while unlacquered copper pans may require more thorough cleaning methods, such as using a combination of vinegar, salt, and flour, or commercial copper cleaners, to prevent and remove tarnish.
Overall, the choice between lacquered and unlacquered copper depends on the desired aesthetic and the level of maintenance one is willing to commit to. Lacquered copper provides a consistent, polished look with less maintenance, while unlacquered copper offers a unique, evolving appearance that many find appealing, but at the cost of more frequent cleaning and polishing.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to strip copper from copper pans. However, it is not recommended to do so unless the copper's lacquer has started to peel. In this case, it is best to remove the lacquer and clean the exposed copper.
To determine if your copper pan has a lacquer finish, rub the surface gently with a microfiber cloth dipped in white vinegar and baking soda. If there is no reaction, your pan is lacquered.
To clean a lacquered copper pan, simply wipe it down with a soft cloth and mild dish soap. Be sure to rinse and dry the pan thoroughly before storing it.
To clean an unlacquered copper pan, you can use a natural cleaner or a DIY solution. Combine acid and salt, such as lemon juice and salt, or vinegar and salt, and scrub the pan with a sponge or cloth. Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly after cleaning.
It is recommended to polish copper pans every six months to prevent tarnishing. However, if your pans are exposed to outdoor elements, such as weather conditions and pollution, you may need to clean them more frequently, ranging from every few weeks to months.
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