How to Clean Copper with Ketchup

Oxidation happens, so frequently household copper will grow dim and need attention to restore its lustrous beauty.
Looking to avoid chemical cleaners? Versatile condiment icon ketchup compliments many favorite American foods and can also maintain the beauty of copper cooking utensils. The acids and vinegar in ketchup provide a cost-effective copper and silver cleaner that can also glaze a Meatloaf or compliment French fries.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ketchup
• Soft cloth
• Salt
• Vinegar
• Cooking Spray

Hot to Clean Copper with Ketchup

1. Pour the ketchup into a medium bowl. Add some abrasive salt and a scant amount of vinegar then blend well.

2. With a soft cloth, liberally apply a generous coating of the ketchup blend to every inch of the tarnished copper item.
   Rub the ketchup into all cracks and crevasses. A tooth brush can be helpful. Allow it to sit for a minimum of 15 minutes.
   Over the sink, rinse the copper piece in warm water and dry with clean soft towel.

3. As the copper sets on the shelf between uses, prevent oxidation by wrapping the item in seran wrap. This process will abate the tarnishing and prevent oxygen from reaching the item.

Tips & Warnings

• Add Sea salt or Kosher Salt to the ketchup as an abrasive.
• Spaghetti sauce works just as well
• Add a bit of vinegar to the ketchup or tomato sauce for added cleaning power. The acetic acid from vinegar provides more cleaning power.
• Do not use scouring pads. It will leave permanent streaks.
• Discard and do not reuse the ketchup mixture.