Clean Copper Quickly – Best Way

If you inherit a copper piece or come across one in a thrift store, this is the best way to clean copper quickly and bring it back to life.

 

Peonies are in full bloom right now, and we all love them! I was thrilled to find them available at Trader Joes this morning when I went in to do my grocery shopping for the week, as they are more affordable there.

Today I’m sharing a cleaning tip that’s a lifesaver if you have copper around your house.
I have been doing way too much of that with the remodel, as I mentioned in my previous post. My poor hands! Let’s not even mention manicure!

Tucked away in the corner of that apartment were some pieces of copper that had seen better days. At least in terms of sheen.

I do love a mix with a little bit of bling, but they were so grimy, and it looked as though someone attempted to clean them in the past with a lot of streaking. They are pitted from life by the sea, but I don’t mind that. I do, however, mind dirt.

This piece is quite large and could be used to hold umbrellas, magazines, or flowers (of course!)
Before I set to clean the pot holding the gorgeous peonies, their color was like the giant handled bucket that I’ve yet to work on. Rather dull…rather bleh.

 

polished copper vase with peony

 

What is the best way to clean copper?

The best to clean copper, in my experience, is using Bar Keepers Friend.
A little bit of elbow grease with one of my favorite cleansers, and if you haven’t tried it and have any metal in your home, then you should.
Bar Keepers Friend.

copper vase with flowers and Bar keep friends cleaner

 

I use it on my stainless steel sink, handle sets, and boy, oh boy, did we use up a ton of it in that condo clean-up!
Just a wet paper towel or sponge and a do bit of scrubbing. That does the trick when it comes to cleaning copper quickly.

You can find Bar Keepers Friend at most grocery stores!

 

 

Don’t forget to take a look at some of my Favorite Remodeling Projects in our home.

PIN FOR LATER!
clean copper quickly hack

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9 Comments

  1. Darrielle Tennenbaum says:

    So pretty–I just bought peonies at TJ yesterday as week. I love them!

  2. Darrielle Tennenbaum says:

    you and Courtney from French Country Cottage both did a post today with peonies and copper! Love it~

  3. Faded Velvet says:

    Janet,
    So pretty….like a new penny! I love the copper with the peonies.
    I'm so impressed that you shined it.
    Lazy me would have told Industrious me, "but the patina looks so charming". Hmmmm…looks as if I have some polishing to do. Lovely post!

    Donna
    (Faded Velvet)

  4. Michaela Staňková says:

    Beautiful peonies-love!!My fav flowres after roses 🙂 Have a wonderful new week ! xoxo
    Vicky

  5. Ashley Bergstrom says:

    Barkeepers Friend is a long time fav of mine! I also use on my stainless steel sink, and my pans every time I wash them. This product has them looking brand spanking new with little effort. Love your post, pictures, and new look!! xo Ashley B.

  6. Love this beauty. I have been using Barkeepers Friend for years. Love this product. I use to clean our utility sink where I clean my paint brushes. Works every time.

    Cindy

  7. Carole Prisk says:

    Antique copper should not be polished or cleaned because you will destroy the patina. If you suspect your item is an antique and want to preserve its value contact a reputable appraiser before proceeding.

    1. I don’t look at vintage pieces as being anymore than an object of beauty and use…so I do like to clean to a shine 😉