How to Care for Copper

When allowed to tarnish, copper develops a green patina that is often valued by antiques collectors. However, manufacturers sometimes coat copper products with lacquer, which prevents this patina from forming and allows copper to retain its shine. Dust raw copper with a paintbrush or soft cloth to remove dirt while allowing the patina to develop, and wash lacquered copper with a mild soap and soft cloth. Hand-wash copper cookware with regular dishwashing liquid and dry it thoroughly.

Copper cookware is not lacquered, but you should wash it often (following the guidelines above) to prevent tarnish stains. Copper cookware is lined with tin or another metal to prevent verdigris poisoning, which arises from ingesting tarnished copper. Polish soiled or tarnished cookware exteriors using copper polish or a lemon that’s cut in half and salted. Then, wash immediately to prevent tarnish from re-forming. Remove food stains on interior surfaces by soaking for several hours in hot, soapy water and scrubbing with a nylon brush.

Lacquered copper is susceptible to scratches, which can allow moisture to reach the metal and cause tarnish. Avoid scratches to keep the lacquer intact. Sulfur compounds present in rainwater can destroy copper, so keep copper items indoors or covered.

Remove fine scratches from raw copper by sanding lightly with fine-grit sandpaper and polishing. If you have copper items with heavy tarnish or worn lacquer, give them to a metal finisher or conservator to renovate.