Copper cookware is the latest kitchen trend, but it tarnishes very easily because the metal is quick to react with many elements, including water and oxygen. Follow these easy environmentally friendly cleaning steps to restore your copper’s original sheen.

Illustraion by Emilie Simpson

Cleaning tarnished copper cookware

1 Before you begin, check the cookware for any scratches or significant wear. Copper can be poisonous, so the cooking surface of copper cookware in Canada is always coated with another metal. If you suspect that the coating has been compromised, it’s best to stop using the pot or pan for food preparation.

2 In a small bowl, combine 1 part table salt and 1 part all-purpose flour. Pour in white vinegar, a bit at a time, mixing to incorporate as you do. Stop once you’ve made a thick paste.

3 Using a soft cloth, rub a generous amount of the paste onto the pot or pan. Depending on how tarnished your cookware is, the effect will be almost instantly apparent, but it will take some good scrubbing to remove any dark marks. Use an old toothbrush for intricate detailing or deep grooves that are hard to reach.

4 Rinse well with water and be sure to dry immediately and completely. If you have any leftover paste, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for the next cleaning.

if all else fails...
If your copper cookware is badly tarnished, you’ll have to move up to a more powerful cleaning product. Your routine all-purpose one is too harsh, so invest in a targeted product. We love Mauviel’s Copperbrill cleaning paste ( Williams-Sonoma). Though the price tag of $34 may seem a little steep, the company has been making high-quality copper cookware since 1830, so it definitely know it's good stuff.