How to Clean Copper and Keep it Looking New

72" Paige Copper Double-Slipper Tub for cleaning copper

A beautiful, durable, and adaptable metal, copper is a popular choice for many products throughout the home. Featuring a “living finish,” copper develops a unique patina as it is exposed to the elements that self-heals from damage like scratches and stains. Though this results in minimal upkeep needed, you’ll want to keep a few key things in mind to properly care for a copper sink or tub.

Follow along to learn what it takes to clean and maintain your copper product, and if you prefer, how to keep it looking like new.

General Copper Care & Maintenance

Cleaning copper is incredibly simple if the right products are used. While cleaners designed specifically for copper are available, you can simply use a gentle soap with warm water. Always clean with a soft sponge or microfiber washcloth, avoiding any abrasive cleaning pads or materials that could damage the surface. Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Acidic cleaners, such as lemon juice and vinegar, will strip any applied finish from the copper; be sure to avoid any acidic chemicals to preserve the finish. This includes using Epsom or bath salts in copper tubs, as they will tarnish and corrode the copper's appearance.

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Protecting the Finish

Copper developing a patina is the result of natural aging, and many choose to leave this organic finish as-is. However, if you’d prefer to protect the finish of copper and halt the patina process, it is recommended that a coating of wax is applied to its surface.

Note: This can be performed at any time throughout the life of your copper product, allowing you to start preserving the finish at your preferred stage of the patina process.

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Choose a copper-safe wax with natural and added UV filters, as these help guard against color and finish degradation. Wax should be applied as often as necessary, depending upon usage or according to manufacturer's instructions of your specific product.

Removing Patina, Applied Finishes, & Stains

If you'd like to retain or restore your copper's natural shine, there are many ways to do so using household items—and if you need to remove any stains from your copper product, these same methods apply. Each of these natural cleaning agents has an acidic makeup that will strip oxidization. While these should be avoided for general cleaning, when used as directed, they are perfect for restoring your copper product to its shiny, polished glory.

How to clean copper option 1 - Mix lemon juice and baking soda and apply to the copper. Buff with a soft cloth

Option 1: Lemon & Baking Soda

One popular option is creating a DIY copper cleaner using lemon juice and baking soda. Simply mix the two ingredients, apply to the copper, and buff with a soft cloth.

Rinse with warm water and dry using circular motions to reveal a clean, polished surface.

How to clean copper option 2 - Mix 1 tbsp salt with 1 cup of vinegar and some flour. Let it sit for 15 min - 1 hour

Option 2: Salt & White Vinegar

You can also create a salt and vinegar paste by mixing 1 tablespoon of salt with 1 cup of white vinegar and adding flour. Let the paste sit for at least 15 minutes to an hour.‌ Rinse the paste off with warm water and dry using a soft, clean towel or cloth. Use circular motions again to polish the copper as you dry.‌

Additional household items can achieve the same task, with ketchup straight from the bottle often able to do the trick as well!

Option 1: Lemon & Baking Soda

One popular option is creating a DIY copper cleaner using lemon juice and baking soda. Simply mix the two ingredients, apply to the copper, and buff with a soft cloth.

Rinse with warm water and dry using circular motions to reveal a clean, polished surface.

Option 2: Salt & White Vinegar

Additional household items can achieve the same task, with ketchup straight from the bottle often able to do the trick as well!

Repairing Dents

To repair a high spot or small dent in your copper product, simply push it out with the heel of your hand to tap the area with a rubber mallet. A bent rim on your copper sink can be fixed by placing your sink upside down on a solid, level surface and gently tapping with the rubber mallet until flat.

Common Questions About Copper Maintenance

What can I put on copper to keep it from rusting?

To prevent your copper product from rusting, keep it waxed using a copper-safe product with natural and added UV filters, as these help guard against color and finish degradation. Keep up with general cleaning in between wax treatments.

How can I tarnish copper naturally?

By opting out of polishing and waxing your copper product, it will tarnish naturally over time as it is exposed to air and moisture. The more exposure to the elements, the quicker the process.

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Can I use Epsom salts in my copper tub?

Do not use Epsom or bath salts in your copper tub, as these will tarnish and corrode the copper's appearance.

What metals should not touch copper?

Copper will not be harmed by the interaction with most metals, with the exception of aluminum and zinc.

Can I place copper in direct sunlight?

Ensure your copper tub does not sit in direct sunlight for long periods of time, as sun exposure will likely result in permanent fading and, as with any metal, could make the surface hot to the touch.