Soap-Man Cleaning Supplies
Kitchen

How to Clean Copper Mugs

Keeping your copper mugs clean isn't just about appearance -- it's about hygiene and performance. Here's how to do it right, with the supplies you probably already have at home.

What You'll Need

  • Lemon
  • Salt
  • Soft cloth
  • Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Wash with mild soap

    Hand wash with warm water and mild dish soap to remove residue. Never use abrasive scrubbers.

  2. 2

    Cut a lemon in half

    Use a fresh lemon. The citric acid is the best natural copper cleaner.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle the lemon with salt

    Coat the cut side of the lemon with coarse salt. The salt provides gentle abrasion.

  4. 4

    Rub the copper exterior

    Rub the lemon and salt over the copper exterior in circular motions. Watch tarnish lift in seconds.

  5. 5

    Rinse and dry immediately

    Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

Pro Tips

  • TIPDry copper mugs immediately after washing -- tarnish forms quickly on wet copper.
  • TIPMany copper mugs have a stainless steel interior to prevent reaction with acidic drinks. Do not let acid touch bare copper.
  • TIPSome prefer a tarnished patina look on copper mugs -- skip cleaning the exterior if you like that aesthetic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XPutting copper mugs in the dishwasher, which damages the finish and accelerates tarnishing.
  • XLetting them air dry, which creates water spots and tarnish.
  • XUsing harsh chemical polishes that may leave residues unsafe for food contact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Never. The harsh detergent and heat damage the copper finish quickly. Hand wash only.