About Copper Polish

Copper is part of everyday household decor. Door knobs, decorative wall hangings, kitchen art, cookware and also bathroom fixtures are frequently fashioned --- in whole or in part --- from the material. Foodies in particular prize copper pots and pans because of the material's well-known heat conductivity that ensures an even cooking of the dishes contained therein. Knowing all about copper polish ensures that your home decor not only gleams but is also well preserved, continues to conduct heat, and is less likely to deteriorate.

Considerations

Apply copper polish more often if the items are situated in rooms with higher moisture content. Like silver, copper tends to oxidize and form a dark tarnish on its surface. This is not only unsightly, but also greatly diminishes the copper's functionality in cookware. As a general rule of thumb, it is wise to polish copper once a week in high moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, and only once a month in other areas of the home.

Misconceptions

Copper polish should only be used for items that do not contain a protective coating of clear or colored lacquer. Manufacturers of ornamental copper items frequently artificially age the copper wares they sell and then apply a clear coat to keep the items' appearances unchanged. It is a common misconception that these ornamental items need to be polished; however, doing so will ruin the lacquer.

Commercially Available Copper Polish

Copper polish is commercially available at your home goods store. The Silver Mate Co. (a link is placed in the resources section) suggests the use of Brass Mate. It is an instant tarnish remover that works simply by dipping the copper item into the liquid solution.

Copper artifacts or ornamental items require a gentler copper polish that also protects the items from rapid tarnishing. Curator's Blend copper polish (a link is posted with the resources) is museum-quality polish that provides long-lasting protection of items which are not used during daily activities.

Alternative to Copper Polish

If you cook with copper bottom cookware but hesitate to use copper polish for frequent cleanings, you have a green alternative to help you remove tarnish and even stuck-on foods safely. Slice a lemon in half, dip it into shallow dish filled with kosher salt, and then rub the salt-coated lemon over the copper portion of the pot. While the pot should still be polished with commercial products at least once a month, this method is perfect for the in-between cleanings.

Warning

Tarnish is unsightly and requires some elbow grease to remove; however, do not give in to the temptation to apply copper polish to an abrasive sponge or Brillo pad. This will scratch the softer copper, make the item unusable, and will only temporarily remove the tarnish. As it comes back, it will settle into the grooves and is virtually impossible to remove at that point.

Resources

• Brass Mate
• Curator's Blend

[chefpierre]

on 7/24/2009 I use Brassmate liquid copper and brass cleaner on my Revere Ware copper pans and it cleans and polishes them like new in just a few seconds. Brassmate is over 95% water and is very mile and has absolutely no abrasive properties. I found Brassmate at www.silvermatecompany.com