Get Rid Of Brown Spots On Your Copper Pan

Brown spots on a copper pan are caused by a chemical reaction between untreated copper and the air, which forms copper oxide. This oxide causes the reddish-pink colour of the copper to turn brown and eventually black. To clean these spots, you can use a combination of lemon and salt, vinegar and salt, or ketchup. For the lemon and salt method, cut a lemon in half and dip the cut ends in salt before rubbing the lemon on the pan. For the vinegar and salt method, mix equal parts vinegar and water with a tablespoon of salt and apply with a cloth. For the ketchup method, simply spread ketchup over the pan and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it away.

Soak the pan in hot, soapy water

Soaking your copper pan in hot, soapy water is an essential step in the cleaning process. This is especially true if there is stuck-on food residue or stubborn tarnish. The hot water will help to loosen and dissolve any food particles, while the soap will cut through grease and grime.

Firstly, fill your kitchen sink or a large bucket with very hot water and add a generous amount of dish soap. You can also add a splash of vinegar to the water, which will react with the copper and help to dissolve any burnt-on food.

Next, submerge your copper pan in the hot, soapy water and let it soak for several hours. If the water starts to cool down, replace it with fresh hot water. The longer you allow the pan to soak, the more effective it will be at loosening stubborn residue.

Once the pan has soaked for a sufficient amount of time, you can begin the process of scrubbing and polishing. Use a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to gently remove any remaining food particles and built-up grease. Be careful not to use steel wool or other abrasive materials, as these can scratch and damage the surface of the copper.

If your copper pan has tough tarnish or burnt-on food that is difficult to remove, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution after soaking. For example, you can create a natural cleaning paste using ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, or vinegar. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Remember to always dry your copper pan thoroughly after washing and soaking to prevent water spots and slow down the tarnishing process.

Use natural cleaning agents like lemon, vinegar, or baking soda

Lemon, vinegar, and baking soda are all effective natural cleaning agents that can be used to clean brown spots off a copper pan after seasoning. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use these ingredients:

Lemon

To clean your copper pan using lemon, cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl, removing any seeds. Sprinkle a generous amount of table salt or coarse salt onto half of the lemon, then gently rub the salted lemon onto the tarnished areas of the pan. Repeat with the remaining lemon if needed. After treating all the tarnished areas, rinse the pan with water to remove any lemon juice and salt residue, then dry it with a microfiber cloth.

Alternatively, you can create a natural abrasive sponge by cutting a lemon in half and applying table salt to the pulp. Rub the lemon onto the patina surface of the copper pan, using more salt if necessary to remove stubborn stains. Rinse and dry the pan afterward.

Vinegar

Vinegar is another natural cleaning agent that can be used to clean copper. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then dip a microfiber cloth into the solution. Gently rub the cloth onto the tarnished areas of the pan, applying light pressure and moving in a circular motion. For stubborn tarnish, let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. After treating the tarnished areas, rinse the pan with water and dry it with a microfiber cloth.

Baking Soda

Baking soda can also be used as a natural cleaning agent for copper pans. Create a paste by mixing three parts baking soda to one part water, then liberally apply the paste to the burnt pan. Alternatively, you can cover the bottom of the pan with a thin layer of warm water and then add enough baking soda to create a paste. Let the mixture sit for a few hours or overnight, then scrub the pan with a nylon brush or scouring sponge. Wash and dry the pan as normal once all the stains and scorched bits have been removed.

Another method is to first remove as much burnt food and debris from the pan as possible. Put the pan back on the stove and heat it until a droplet of water sizzles. Add a mixture of half water and half white vinegar to the hot pan and allow it to boil. Use a spatula or scraper to deglaze the bottom of the pan, loosening the burnt food. Pour out the liquid, then sprinkle the bottom of the pan with baking soda and let it cool. Use a wet scouring sponge or nylon brush to scrub the pan vigorously, then wash and dry as normal.

You can also use a combination of vinegar and baking soda for a more heavy-duty cleaning method. First, remove as much food and debris from the pan as possible. Add enough white vinegar to cover the bottom of the pan with at least half an inch of liquid, then boil the vinegar and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and add baking soda, which will create a fizzing reaction. Set the pan aside and wait until the fizzing stops, then discard the liquid and scrub the pan with a nylon brush or scouring sponge. Rinse and dry the pan afterward.

Additional Tips

When using natural cleaning agents like lemon, vinegar, or baking soda, it is important to avoid using abrasive cleaning tools as copper is a soft metal that can scratch easily. Always use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush when cleaning copper pans. Additionally, be sure to dry your copper pan thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots from forming.

Try commercial copper cleaners

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to clean your copper pans, commercial copper cleaners are a great option. These cleaners are designed to effectively remove tarnish and stains from copper, and they can be a lifesaver if you're dealing with stubborn buildup. Here's everything you need to know about using commercial copper cleaners:

Types of Commercial Copper Cleaners

Commercial copper cleaners typically come in the form of liquids, creams, or sprays. These cleaners usually contain a combination of mild abrasives and acids that work together to break down and remove tarnish from copper surfaces. Some popular options include:

• Wright's Copper Cream: This cream uses a combination of citric acid and ammonium chloride to remove tarnish and stains. It's known for its mild, non-scratching formula that won't damage your copper pans.
• Bar Keepers Friend: This is a popular commercial cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including copper. It effectively removes rust, stains, and scum without being too harsh on your pans.
• Flitz Brass and Copper Tarnish Remover: If you're looking for a spray option, this product is a great choice. It easily removes tarnish and stains without the need for heavy scrubbing, making it a convenient and time-saving option.

How to Use Commercial Copper Cleaners

Using a commercial copper cleaner is usually a straightforward process:

• Start by washing your copper pan with warm, soapy water to remove any grease or dirt.
• Apply the commercial cleaner to the surface of the pan. Follow the instructions on the product for the recommended amount and application method.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the surface of the pan in small circles.
• For stubborn stains, let the cleaner sit on the pan for a few minutes before scrubbing again.
• Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any residue from the cleaner.
• Dry the pan thoroughly with a lint-free towel. Avoid air-drying to prevent water stains or further tarnishing.

Benefits of Using Commercial Copper Cleaners

Commercial copper cleaners offer several advantages:

• Effectiveness: These cleaners are designed specifically to tackle tarnish and stains on copper, making them highly effective at restoring the shine to your copper pans.
• Ease of Use: Commercial cleaners often require less elbow grease compared to natural cleaning methods, making the cleaning process faster and less tedious.
• Protective Coating: Some commercial copper cleaners, like Wright's Copper Cream, leave behind a protective coating that helps prevent future tarnishing. This can save you time and effort in the long run.

Precautions When Using Commercial Copper Cleaners

When using commercial copper cleaners, keep the following precautions in mind:

• Always spot-test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your copper pan before applying it to the entire surface. This will help ensure that the cleaner doesn't damage or discolour the copper.
• Avoid using abrasive tools like steel wool when scrubbing with the cleaner, as this can scratch and damage the copper surface.
• Be cautious when using commercial cleaners that contain harsh chemicals, as they may require gloves and proper ventilation during use. Always read the instructions and safety precautions on the product label.

Dry the pan thoroughly

Drying your copper pan is a crucial step in the cleaning process, as any moisture left on the pan will speed up the rate at which the copper tarnishes. To dry your pan thoroughly, use a clean towel to remove any remaining water from the pan's surface. Then, use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to polish the pan until it is completely dry. This extra step will help to prevent water spots from forming and ensure that your pan is fully prepared for its next use.

If your copper pan has a lacquer coating, which serves as a protective layer to prevent discolouration, you can simply wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth and mild dish soap. Be sure to rinse the soap off thoroughly and dry your pan well before putting it away or returning it to display.

For unlacquered copper pans, it is important to dry them right away after washing to prevent the formation of tarnish. You can also coat your copper cookware with a light layer of mineral or baby oil, which will create a barrier between the copper and the air, slowing down the tarnishing process. Just be sure to wash the pan thoroughly before using it again.

To store your copper pans, keep them in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. Sunlight and heat can accelerate tarnishing, so it is best to store them in a cabinet or box, layering them with soft cloths or acid-free tissue paper to prevent contact with other cookware.

Prevent future tarnishing with oil or proper storage

To prevent future tarnishing, it is important to understand why copper tarnishes in the first place. Copper tarnishes due to a natural chemical reaction between the metal and its environment, specifically the oxygen in the air. This process is known as oxidation, which results in the formation of copper oxide, a brownish-black substance that eventually turns into a patina, giving old copper its signature blueish-green hue.

To prevent tarnishing, you can create a barrier between the copper and the oxygen in the air. One way to do this is by applying a light coat of baby or mineral oil to your copper items after cleaning. The oil will seal the copper and slow down the tarnishing process. Another way to create a barrier is by using a wax coating or lacquer spray, which will give your copper items a protective layer and stop oxygen from interacting with the metal.

Proper storage is also key to preventing tarnishing. If you are displaying your copper items, try to place them in areas with minimal exposure to direct sunlight, excessive humidity, or pollutants. Ultraviolet light and high humidity can accelerate the tarnishing process. If you are storing your copper items in a cabinet or container, consider wrapping them in acid-free tissue paper or cloth to prevent tarnishing caused by contact with other materials.

Additionally, it is important to keep your copper items away from certain air pollutants that can react with copper and speed up tarnishing. Avoid using harsh cleaning products that contain these pollutants, and if your copper items are outdoors, be aware that industrial emissions can also cause tarnishing.

Frequently asked questions