Cleaning Copper Jewelry

Copper Jewelry Cleaning with Vinegar (Submersion Method)

(Some delicate stones such as Opals should not be cleaned by this method)

Cleaning copper jewelry with a mixture of Dawn dish soap, coarse salt, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar is a natural and effective way to restore the shine and remove tarnish from copper. This method involves creating a liquid cleaning solution and submerging your copper pieces in it for optimal results. Agitating the mixture helps to enhance the cleaning power and tackle stubborn tarnish.

Why This Works:

• Dawn Soap: Breaks down grease, oils, and dirt on the copper's surface, making it easier to clean.

• Coarse Salt: Acts as a mild abrasive to scrub away tarnish, with the larger crystals providing more scrubbing power.

• Baking Soda: A gentle abrasive that helps lift tarnish and grime from the copper without scratching it.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidity dissolves tarnish, oxidation, and stains, aiding in the overall cleaning process.

How to Clean Copper with Dawn Soap, Coarse Salt, Baking Soda, and Apple Cider Vinegar (Submersion Method)

Materials Needed:

• Dawn dish soap (a small amount)

• Coarse salt (enough to create a scrub paste)

• Baking soda (1-2 tablespoons)

• Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons)

• A bowl or container (large enough to submerge the copper)

• Warm water

• Soft cloth or sponge (for agitation)

Step-by-Step Instructions: (Some delicate stones such as Opals should not be cleaned by this method)

1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution:

   • In a bowl or container, mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda. This will create a fizzing reaction, which is normal.

   • Add 1-2 tablespoons of coarse salt to the mixture to provide abrasiveness for the cleaning process.

   • Stir in a few drops of Dawn dish soap to help break down grease or oil on the copper.

2. Submerge Copper Items:

   • Carefully place your tarnished copper jewelry or items into the bowl with the liquid cleaning mixture.

   • Ensure that the copper pieces are fully submerged. If needed, you can add a little warm water to fully cover them.

3. Agitate the Mixture:

   • Gently agitate the mixture by swirling the container or lightly stirring it with a soft cloth or sponge. This will help the solution reach every part of the copper, and the abrasiveness of the salt combined with the vinegar and baking soda will work on breaking down the tarnish.

4. Soak and Clean:

   • Allow the copper to soak for 3-5 minutes in the solution. The acidity of the vinegar and the action of the baking soda will start to dissolve the tarnish and oxidation.

   • After soaking, you can gently rub or scrub any remaining tarnish with a soft cloth or sponge, especially in areas with heavy tarnish.

5. Rinse and Dry:

   • Once the tarnish has been removed, rinse the copper pieces thoroughly with warm water to wash away the cleaning solution.

   • Dry the copper with a soft cloth to avoid any water spots.

   • Make sure thoroughly dry!!!

1. Polish (Optional):

   • For an extra shine, buff the copper with a clean, dry cloth or apply a bit of olive oil or copper polish.

This submersion method is a great way to thoroughly clean your copper items while gently removing tarnish and oxidation. Let me know if you have any questions or need more tips on keeping your copper jewelry looking its best!