How to Clean Copper Pots: Practical, Safe, and Long-Lasting Methods

Why copper needs special care

Copper is prized for its excellent heat conductivity and attractive warm glow, but it tarnishes and reacts differently than stainless steel or cast iron. Proper care preserves performance and food safety. The methods below differentiate between unlined (pure copper) and lined copper cookware (tinned or stainless interior) so you use the right cleaners and avoid damaging the lining.

Identify your pot and gather supplies

• Check the interior: is it tin-lined, stainless-lined, or bare copper? If unsure, consult the manufacturer.
• Basic supplies: mild dish soap, soft sponge, non-scratch nylon scrub pad, microfiber or cotton cloths, soft-bristled brush.
• Natural cleaners: distilled white vinegar, lemon, coarse salt, baking soda, ketchup (yes, it works), and cream of tartar.
• Commercial: copper polish formulated for cookware, and a soft polishing cloth. These are also useful when you polish silver cutlery or other metalware.
• Safety gear: rubber gloves when using acidic or commercial cleaners; avoid steel wool and harsh abrasives on copper surfaces and linings.

Everyday cleaning (after each use)

For routine care, wash warm copper pots by hand with mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft sponge to remove grease and food. Rinse and dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots. Never put copper pots in the dishwasher—aggressive detergents and high heat cause discoloration and damage the finish.

Removing light tarnish and restoring shine

• Vinegar and salt: sprinkle coarse salt on the copper surface, rub with half a lemon or use a cloth dampened with white vinegar. Rinse well and dry. This removes thin oxidation and small stains.
• Baking soda paste: mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Gently rub the surface with a soft cloth, rinse and dry. Safe for most finishes and good for light polishing.
• Ketchup method: spread a thin layer of ketchup, leave 5–15 minutes, rub gently, rinse and dry. The mild acid and tomato enzymes lift tarnish and are surprisingly effective for moderate discoloration.

Heavy tarnish or green verdigris (unlined copper)

Green verdigris is copper salt and can be toxic; remove it promptly. Use a stronger acid cleaner but proceed carefully:

• Apply a mixture of white vinegar and salt or lemon juice and salt to the affected spots. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and neutralize with a baking soda rinse (dissolve a teaspoon in a cup of water) before a final rinse and dry.
• If the pot is unlined and used for food, avoid prolonged exposure to acidic food after cleaning until you are sure all residues are rinsed off.

Burnt-on food and stubborn deposits

Fill the pot with enough water to cover the burnt area, add a cup of white vinegar and bring to a simmer for 10–15 minutes. Turn off the heat, add a tablespoon of baking soda (it will fizz) and let cool. Scrape gently with a wooden spoon or non-scratch pad. Rinse and dry. For extremely stubborn carbonized food, repeat or use a specialized cookware cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

Cleaning lined copper cookware

If your copper pot has a tin or stainless lining, treat the interior like you would other lined cookware. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch or remove the lining. For tinned interiors that are worn or cracked, consult a professional for re-tinning. Lined pots tolerate more vigorous cleaning on the copper exterior, but still do not use strong caustic chemicals or the dishwasher.

Polishing and finishing touches

• Use a soft cloth and a proper copper polish for the brightest, long-lasting shine. Buff in circular motions, then wipe away residue and re-polish lightly with a clean cloth.
• For a food-safe glow, rub a tiny amount of food-grade mineral oil on the exterior after cleaning; wipe off excess. This delays tarnish but must be reapplied periodically.
• Avoid over-polishing if you prefer a natural patina. Patina protects copper and many cooks appreciate the older look; choose the finish that suits your use and appearance preferences.

Quick home recipes: Mix 1 tbsp salt + 1/2 cup white vinegar to form a paste for quick tarnish removal. Or use lemon halves dipped in salt for targeted spots. For a gentle polish, make a paste of baking soda and water. Rinse thoroughly after each method and dry.

Maintenance routine and kitchen context

Include copper care in your regular kitchen tasks. While you clean countertops and polish stainless appliances, also remember to polish silver cutlery and schedule periodic checks of copper cookware. A monthly light polish keeps tarnish manageable. When deep-cleaning the kitchen appliances, don't forget to clean toaster oven interiors and seals on a schedule that prevents grease buildup. After making cleaning pastes or acidic solutions in a blender or food processor, be sure to clean blender thoroughly so no abrasive or acidic residues remain to damage the appliance.

Storage, repair, and safety

• Store copper pots dry and preferably unstacked or separated with soft cloths to avoid scratches.
• If a cookware lining fails, stop using the pot for cooking acidic foods and seek professional re-tinning or replacement.
• Always rinse well after using acidic cleaners. If you have concerns about residues, wash again with hot soapy water and dry.

Troubleshooting quick guide

• Persistent black spots after polishing: may be old pits—assess if cosmetic or structural; professional servicing could be needed.
• Green residues: remove promptly with vinegar + salt and rinse thoroughly; avoid using the pot for food until cleaned.
• Interior scratches: for tinned pots, scratches that expose copper may require re-tinning to remain safe for acidic cooking.

With regular, gentle care and the right methods for the type of copper you own, your copper pots will remain functional and beautiful for decades. Avoid the dishwasher, choose the correct cleaning agent, and include copper care in your standard kitchen maintenance along with other tasks like polishing flatware and keeping appliances clean.

More tips in the section Kitchen Cleaning & Organization