How to clean copper objects?

Copper, like brass and bronze, are metals that tend to tarnish and oxidise over time. Moreover, it is not easy to clean them without risking damage.

In this article you will find some tips on how to clean and maintain your copper objects so that they shine again.

Clean your copper items properly 

Cleaning improves the appearance of copper objects by removing dirt and dust, for example. Polishing removes tarnish by removing a light layer of metal from the surface. Repeated polishing can lead to the loss of engraved details on the object.

You can apply a protective wax, for example, which can reduce the frequency of cleaning and polishing.

How to clean a copper object?

Copper can be subject to verdigris, a copper corrosion product. This is the oxidation of copper (and its various alloys) in contact with moisture. A blue-green layer forms on the surface.

Copper objects can be cleaned with baking soda. This will clean your object without even having to rub it. Soak your object in a mixture of boiling water and baking soda, then finish by soaping it. Finish by rinsing with water and carefully drying your statuette, candlestick or other bronze object.

This advice may be useful if you do not have a suitable product. If possible, use a professional cleaner designed for cleaning copper. 

Professional cleaning solutions for copper 

Cleaning cloth for copper, brass and bronze 

Discover our Copper, Brass & Bronze Duster, which allow you to clean and maintain your copper, brass and bronze objects by simply polishing them with the cloth.

The cotton cloth impregnated with an exclusive formula provides an anti-tarnishing effect on your objects. Thanks to the natural oils and clay, it polishes, renovates and smoothes the surface, while providing a pearl effect.

Cleaning lotion for copper, brass and bronze 

For in-depth maintenance and protection against oxidation for several weeks, choose Hagerty's Copper, Brass & Bronze Polish.

Cleaning is easy, gives almost instant results and does not cause any micro-scratches or marks on metals. Make your tarnished vases, sculptures, pots, instruments and other copper, brass and bronze objects shine again.

If you have any questions or doubts, please contact us at the following e-mail address: hagerty@hagerty.world.