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How do you clean copper at home?

Published in Copper Cleaning 2 mins read

You can effectively clean copper at home using common household ingredients like vinegar and salt.

Cleaning Copper with Vinegar and Salt

This method leverages the acidity of vinegar and the abrasiveness of salt to remove tarnish from copper surfaces. Here's how you can do it:

Method 1: Direct Application

  1. Prepare the Mixture: Combine 1 tablespoon of table salt with 1 cup of white vinegar.
  2. Apply: Rub the mixture onto the tarnished copper using a soft cloth. The salt acts as a gentle abrasive, while the vinegar helps dissolve the tarnish.
  3. Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the copper item with water to remove any remaining vinegar and salt residue.
  4. Dry: Dry the copper item completely with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.

Method 2: Boiling

This method is suitable for items that can be safely immersed in water.

  1. Prepare the Solution: In a pot, combine 3 cups of water with the salt-vinegar mixture (1 tablespoon of salt and 1 cup of white vinegar).
  2. Immerse: Place the tarnished copper item into the pot.
  3. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil and continue boiling until the grime and tarnish come off.
  4. Rinse: Remove the copper item from the pot and rinse it thoroughly with water.
  5. Dry: Dry the copper item completely with a clean cloth.

Summary Table: Cleaning Copper with Vinegar and Salt

Step Direct Application Boiling Method
1. Prepare Mix 1 tbsp salt with 1 cup white vinegar. Mix 1 tbsp salt, 1 cup vinegar, and 3 cups water in a pot.
2. Apply/Immerse Rub mixture onto copper with a soft cloth. Immerse the copper item in the pot.
3. Action N/A Bring to a boil; boil until tarnish is removed.
4. Rinse Rinse thoroughly with water. Rinse thoroughly with water.
5. Dry Dry completely with a clean cloth. Dry completely with a clean cloth.