How to Clean Really Dirty Copper Pots

Copper pots are excellent choices for cookware due to copper's superior powers of conduction. The downside of copper is the process of oxidation. This occurs when copper is exposed to heat, air and humidity--three things that are unavoidable during cooking. If the oxidation goes untreated, it will result in the formation of the familiar blue-green copper salts known as verdigris. These salts are great for the Statue of Liberty, but do not make for good cookware.

Things You'll Need

• Ketchup
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons coarse salt
• Sponge or dishrag

Instructions

1. Apply ketchup to heavy marks on the copper cookware and leave it for approximately 10 minutes. Ketchup works because of its natural acidity.

2. Wash the ketchup off thoroughly using hot soapy water.

3. Mix the salt and vinegar together to form a paste and apply it to the copper using a sponge or dishrag.

4. Rub the paste thoroughly into the copper and then rinse off in plenty of hot water.

Tips & Warnings

• If you wish to have bright and shiny copper pots, applying a commercial polishing compound is a safe way to go. Polishes such as Brasso and Never Dull can bring your pots to a nice even shine.

• Never use abrasive cloth, steel wool or scouring pads on your copper cookware. Doing so can compromise the surface of the copper. Never put your copper cookware in the dishwasher. The chlorine in many detergents can eventually cause pitting, and will also cause the copper to oxidize much more rapidly.

References

• Guide to Caring for Copper Cookware