Restoring Copper Shine: Removing Stubborn Build-Up From Pans

Burnt copper pans are a common problem for many home cooks. The good news is that it's possible to salvage a burnt copper-bottom pan with proper cleaning techniques. Copper is reactive with acidic foods, causing the metal to leach into the food, so it's important to act quickly to prevent this from happening. In this article, we'll explore different methods for removing built-up residue from the bottom of copper pans, including liquid dish soap, tomato ketchup, white vinegar, flour, salt, lemon juice, and baking soda. We'll also discuss the benefits of using natural acids like lemon juice and vinegar to remove tarnish and restore the copper's lustre. By following these simple steps, you can effectively clean your copper pans and ensure even heat distribution during cooking.

Use liquid dish soap, tomato ketchup, white vinegar, flour, salt and lemon juice

To remove built-up residue from the bottom of a copper pan, you can use a variety of household items such as liquid dish soap, tomato ketchup, white vinegar, flour, salt, and lemon juice. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use these items effectively:

Liquid Dish Soap

Add two to three drops of liquid dish soap to the bottom of the pan. Fill the pan with hot water, covering any burnt or stuck-on food. Mix in a couple of tablespoons of baking soda and let the pan soak for an hour. Try scrubbing the burnt food with a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. If the food is still stuck, leave the pan to soak overnight. Then scrub and rinse the pan with hot water and dry it with a cloth.

Tomato Ketchup

Apply a liberal coating of tomato ketchup to the bottom of the pan. Leave it for 10 to 20 minutes. Wipe the pan clean and rinse it with warm water. The tomatoes in ketchup contain acid that helps remove tarnish.

White Vinegar

Create a paste by mixing white vinegar and table salt. You can also add some flour to make the paste thicker and stick better to the pan. Spread the paste over the bottom of the pan and rub it in with a cloth. Let the paste sit until it dries, then wipe away the excess with a cloth and rinse the pan with hot water.

Flour

Mix vinegar, water, and salt in a bowl. Add flour to the mixture to create a thick paste. Spread the paste over the bottom of the pan and rub it in with a cloth. Let it sit until it dries, then wipe away the excess paste and rinse the pan with hot water.

Salt

Cut a lemon in half and dip the cut surface into table salt. Rub the salted lemon over any remaining burnt or tarnished spots on the bottom of the pan until the stains disappear. Rinse the pan with hot water and dry it with a cloth.

Lemon Juice

Mix lemon juice with baking soda and stir until completely combined. Apply the mixture to the bottom of the pan and buff it with a soft, clean cloth in a circular motion. Rinse and dry the pan. Alternatively, cut a lemon in half, dip it in salt, and rub the lemon over the patina surface of the pan.

Soak overnight

If the burnt food is still firmly stuck to the pan after scrubbing, it is recommended to leave the pan to soak overnight. This will help to soften any remaining burn marks.

After leaving the pan to soak overnight, scrub away the softened particles and rinse the pan with hot water. Take a soft cloth and dry the pan properly.

If there are any stubborn burnt particles that remain, you can repeat the process by pouring a bit of dishwashing liquid onto the burnt bottom of the pan and adding hot water. Let the pan soak for a bit, and then scrub away the burnt food particles with a dish scrubber. Avoid using intense scrubbers like steel wool, as these may compromise the non-stick coating of the pan.

For burnt copper pans, it is important to note that the longer the burnt food is left on the pan, the harder it will be to remove. Therefore, it is best to clean copper pans regularly and not leave burnt food on them for extended periods of time.

Use a soft cloth to dry the pan

Using a soft cloth to dry your copper pan is the final step in the cleaning process. It is important to ensure that your pan is thoroughly dried after cleaning to prevent water spots and to maintain its shine.

When drying your pan, use a soft, lint-free, or microfiber cloth. Gently wipe the surface of the pan, ensuring that you cover the entire area, including the edges and handles. Take care not to miss any spots, as moisture can speed up the tarnishing process and lead to discolouration.

If you notice any stubborn water spots or streaks after drying, you can use the cloth to buff the surface of the pan gently. This will help remove any remaining water residue and restore the pan's shine.

Additionally, you can use a soft cloth to apply a light layer of mineral or baby oil to your copper pan after drying. This creates a protective barrier that slows down the tarnishing process by preventing the copper from coming into direct contact with the air.

Remember to always wash and dry your copper pans promptly after each use. This will help prevent the build-up of burnt food and grease, making it easier to maintain the condition and performance of your copper cookware.

Try Bar Keeper's Friend

If you're looking to remove built-up residue from the bottom of your copper pan, Bar Keepers Friend is a great option. It's a safe, effective cleanser that can be used on both copper surfaces and the protective lining of your pan, usually made of tin or stainless steel. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Bar Keepers Friend to get your copper pans looking like new again:

Step 1: Wet the Pan

Start by wetting the entire surface of your copper pan. You can do this by simply running it under the sink or filling your sink with water. Use a soft, non-abrasive sponge to spread the water evenly.

Step 2: Create a Paste

In a small bowl, mix the Bar Keepers Friend powder with water until it forms a paste. The amount of powder and water needed may vary, so adjust as needed. You want a consistency that will stick to the pan without being too runny.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

Use your soft sponge to spread the paste over the entire surface of the pan, including the bottom and sides. Make sure to cover any areas with built-up residue or stains.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Allow the paste to sit on the pan for about one minute. Be careful not to let it sit for too long, as it can stain the copper if left on for an extended period. One minute is usually enough time for the cleanser to work its magic.

Step 5: Rinse and Repeat

Rinse the pan thoroughly with water. If you still see stains or built-up residue, repeat the process. You may need to do this a few times for heavily soiled pans.

Step 6: Polish

After rinsing, use a soft cloth to polish the pan. Microfiber cloths work great for this step, leaving your copper with a shiny, like-new finish.

Tips for Maintaining Your Copper Pans:

• Always wash your copper pans with warm soapy water after each use.
• Avoid preheating your copper pans without water, food, or oil, as this can degrade the lining.
• Never put your copper pans away while they are still wet. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them.
• Address tarnishing as soon as you notice it. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, as these can damage the finish of your copper pans.

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your copper pans in top condition and enjoy their beauty and functionality for years to come.

Use a copper wire scrub pad

To remove built-up residue from the bottom of a copper pan, you can use a copper wire scrub pad. This is an effective method for tackling hard burnt-on grease and crud.

You can purchase a copper wire scrub pad from most houseware stores, or the houseware section of a supermarket or drugstore. Ensure you only use the copper scrub pad on the copper part of the pan to avoid scratching or rubbing off the copper.

To begin, wet the scrubber with hot water and use a scrubbing agent like Bar Keepers Friend. This method will require some elbow grease and may need multiple applications. Be firm but gentle, and keep rinsing the pan with very hot water in between scrubs.

Take your time and keep at it; it is a bit of work, but the results are rewarding. Even 10 years of accumulation can be removed with this method.

Frequently asked questions