Copper cookware is visually stunning, not to mention durable and allows for even heat distribution. However, copper requires a little extra care than some other metals that are commonly used in cookware. Like silver and brass, copper is prone to tarnish. Tarnish is a layer of corrosion that naturally occurs when certain metals are exposed to oxygen and water over an extended period of time.
If you notice your copper cookware beginning to tarnish, don’t worry because with a little elbow grease, you can help restore its bright and shiny appearance. We sought the advice of a professional chef and cleaning expert who shared their tips for cleaning and caring for copper cookware so it glistens after each and every meal.
- Derek Finocchiaro, resident chef at All-Clad
- Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean
Materials
Keep these materials on hand when cleaning copper cookware:
- Dish soap
- Sponge
- Soft cloth
- Ketchup
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Lemon juice
- Baking soda
How to Clean a Copper Cookware with Dish Soap
Dish soap is often the best place to start when it comes to cleaning your copper cookware because it’s effective, and you’re likely to have it on hand. Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean, uses dish soap to clean copper cookware in essentially the same way you’d clean any other dishes or cookware.
- Allow cookware to cool completely after use.
- Rinse cookware with warm water to remove any loose debris.
- Apply a small amount of dish soap to a sponge or soft cloth.
- Gently scrub the copper surface in circular motions, paying extra attention to areas with grime or stains.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
You can also use this simple process for stainless steel, as it’s often used to line copper pans, says Derek Finocchiaro, resident chef at All-Clad.
How to Clean Copper Cookware With Ketchup
Believe it or not, ketchup is an effective way to keep your copper cookware clean and shiny. While this method is a little bit more labor-intensive, it can really help with tarnished cookware, as the acids in the ketchup help break down the tarnish, says Sokolowski.
- Allow the cookware to cool completely after use.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the cookware. Allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub the ketchup in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water
- Dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent any ketchup residues from causing spots.
How to Clean Copper Cookware With Vinegar and Salt
If your copper cookware has stains or food residue that’s hard to remove, you may need something more heavy duty than dish soap or ketchup. “Vinegar can be a useful tool for cookware in need of a little extra TLC,” says Finocchiaro, especially if your cookware is discolored.
- Allow the cookware to cool completely after use.
- Mix equal parts vinegar and salt together into a solution.
- Use a sponge or soft cloth to spread the solution on the cookware.
- Let the cookware sit in the solution for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
How to Clean Copper Cookware With Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
Lemon juice and baking soda are a dish soap alternative that’s all-natural and equally effective. To make your cookware sparkle, give Sokolowski’s go-to method a try.
- Allow the cookware to cool completely after use.
- Mix lemon juice and baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the cookware’s surface using a soft cloth.
- Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes.
- Gently scrub the cookware in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry the cookware immediately with a soft cloth to maintain its shine.
How to Clean Badly Tarnished Copper Cookware
While ketchup or vinegar and salt can help break down tarnish on copper cookware, severely tarnished cookware might require a combination of methods to get it looking its best, says Sokolowski.
- Fill the copper cookware with water, 1 cup of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Allow the water to cool, then scrub and rinse.
- Dry the cookware immediately with a soft cloth to maintain its shine.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Copper Cookware
Copper cookware is sturdy and durable, but it’s still important to be careful when cleaning it. Improper care can damage your cookware, reducing its lifespan.
- Avoid stacking copper cookware to prevent scratches, says Sokolowski.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals that can damage the copper’s finish, says Sokolowski.
- Avoid using abrasive materials, like oven cleaners, steel wool, and steel scouring pads, says Finocchiaro.
- Never put copper cookware in the dishwasher. Always hand wash instead.
Tips for Making Your Copper Cookware Last Longer
With proper care, copper cookware can last for several decades. In addition to cleaning it properly, there are a number of steps you can take to make it last longer.
- Don’t slide or drag cookware across your stovetop, as it can damage the cookware and the stovetop itself, warns Finocchiaro.
- Dry copper cookware immediately after washing to prevent water spots and tarnishing, says Sokolowski.
- Polish your cookware regularly, either with natural copper polish or a homemade paste of flour, vinegar, and salt to keep it shiny.
- Store your cookware in a cool, dry place.
