Copper can look stunning, but it can also easily oxidise. You should avoid using harsh chemicals, so let’s take a look at the recommended methods.

Copper in the home

Copper has a number of uses. You may have copper jewellery or ornaments, or your kitchen utensils may include copper pots and pans. You may also have copper pipe connectors that you will be keen to keep gleaming. Copper pipe connectors are available from pipeline merchants such as https://watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems/.

Cleaning copper

Left untreated, copper develops a patina. Many people consider this part of its charm; however, if you want to keep copper gleaming, you will need to clean it at intervals of between three and six months. The best methods involve common household ingredients:

Lemon and salt

After washing the copper piece in warm, soapy water, apply a paste made from two parts salt and three parts lemon juice, working in small circles with a cloth before rinsing and drying. The citric acid in lemon juice breaks the bond between the tarnish and the surface, while the salt is mildly abrasive and can scrub the tarnish without damaging the surface of the copper.

Ketchup or vinegar

Vinegar contains acetic acid, while ketchup contains vinegar and citric acid. Both react with the copper tarnish to break the bond. If you are using vinegar, use white vinegar and mix it with salt or baking soda. Ketchup can be squirted straight from the bottle, although a little baking soda may be needed for stubborn stains. If you prefer homemade ketchup, BBC Good Food has a tasty recipe:

Wash off the dust in warm, soapy water and rinse well afterwards, drying with a lint-free cloth. Use a fresh cloth to burnish the copper for a rich glow.

Prolong the shine

Keep your copper gleaming by avoiding harsh, abrasive chemicals and by storing your copper items in a cool dry place. A thin layer of mineral oil can slow down the tarnishing process, but you should keep an eye out for any stains and act promptly.