How to Clean Oxidized Copper
There is no mistaking the brilliant sheen of copper. Unfortunately it doesn't always stay that way. Copper that is exposed to moist air quickly oxidizes leaving a dull brown finish ruining its appearance. Fortunately, oxidized copper is easy to clean. Read on to learn how to clean oxidized copper. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Make a paste of 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of flour. Apply the paste to tarnished copper, being sure to get into all crevices and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Use a damp soft bristled toothbrush, a discarded electric toothbrush works great, to gently scrub the surface. Rinse the object with clean cool water and polish dry with a soft dry cloth.
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Moisten salt with lemon juice to create a cleaning solution for oxidized copper. The salt will work as a gentle abrasive and the acid in the lemon juice will cut through oxidation. Scrub the tarnished object with a soft cloth to remove tarnish. Use an old soft bristled toothbrush to get into decorative scrolls or crevices. Rinse with cool water and buff to a shine.
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Try lemon juice and cream of tartar for cleaning copper. Mix a paste and apply to the copper object using a soft bristled toothbrush. Be sure to give the entire piece a good scrub and allow to set for 15 minutes. Rinse clean with clear water and buff to a shine.
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Clean small objects by adding 2 tbsp. of salt and a cup of vinegar to a pot of water. Boil the object in this solution for 20 minutes. Remove and rinse clean with cool water. If residue remains in crevices or small parts, use a soft bristled brush to clean. Dry thoroughly and buff to a shine with a clean soft cloth.
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Clean large objects with lemon juice and salt. Try sprinkling salt onto a lemon half and polishing with the lemon. Add more salt whenever needed. Remove stubborn areas with a soft bristled brush saturated with lemon juice. Rinse and polish with a soft clean cloth.
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Coat clean and dry copper objects with a clear lacquer to seal in shine and seal out tarnish.
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Tips & Warnings
Many copper objects are already sealed with a lacquer finish to prevent oxidation. To maintain the appearance of these objects, simply dust or wash with a mild detergent and water. Using harsh chemicals may remove the protective coating and cause your copper to oxidize.
