How do I Clean a Copper Antique Finish?

Properly clean copper antique objects.

Copper antiques, such as kitchen utensils and home decorations, are valued objects, cherished by many collectors around the world. As copper antiques age, patina and oxidization form and cause copper to appear tarnished and dingy. Once the old, natural patina on copper antiques is removed, their distinguished deep brown colors can never be restored. Since dirt and dust accumulate on copper antiques, cleaning is necessary for preservation and appearance reasons. Only use certain solutions on a copper object, to prevent altering its natural color and reducing its value.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gallon water
• Plastic cleaning bucket
• 2 tbsp. liquid laundry detergent
• 2 soft rags
• 1 tbsp. baking soda
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Pour 1 gallon of water into a plastic cleaning bucket. Add 2 tbsp. of liquid laundry detergent to the water.

2. Dampen a soft rag in the soapy solution. Wipe the damp rag thoroughly over the copper object, to remove dirt and dust.

3. Pour 1 tbsp. of baking soda on another soft rag. Rub the rag over the object, to clean the copper and add shine.

4. Rinse the object with water, to remove the soapy solution and baking soda. Wipe the object completely dry, using a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute the liquid laundry detergent for liquid dishwashing soap, citrus degreaser or other non-grainy cleaner. The same cleaning process applies to copper objects coated with lacquer.

• Do not use steel wool or scouring powders on the copper object, as they will damage the piece with scratches.

References

• Copperton Lane: Copperton Lane's Tips On Removing Lacquer From Copperware
• How To Clean Stuff: How To Clean Antique Copper And Bronze