Caring for Copper, Brass and Bronze by Empire Copper

Caring for your Copper, Brass or Bronze piece(s) can be done using a variety of methods and household products. Here are some common, Empire Copper approved techniques:

1.  Lemon and Salt: Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt on the cut side. Rub the lemon over the copper, brass, or bronze surface, applying gentle pressure. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth. This method should only be used on dirty or tarnished metal. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.

2. Vinegar and Salt: Create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and salt. Apply the mixture to the surface and rub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.

3. Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste by combining baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the metal surface and rub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.

4. Lemon Juice and Baking Soda: Mix lemon juice and baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to the metal surface and rub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.
   
   

5. Commercial Metal Polish: There are various commercial cleaners and polishes available specifically designed for cleaning copper, brass, and bronze. If the metal is heavily tarnished, we recommend Autosol Metal Polish or, Brasso Metalware Polish. Follow the instructions provided on the product for best results. Be sure to rinse and dry the metal thoroughly after using these cleaners. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.

6. Ketchup or Tomato Paste: Yes, you read that right! This one is a wildcard. Apply a small amount of ketchup or tomato paste to the metal surface and rub gently with a soft cloth. The acidity in tomatoes helps to remove tarnish. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. DO NOT apply this method to patinated products as it will likely damage the patina.

7. Regular Dusting: Like anything, regular dusting will help to preserve and maintain the beauty of copper, brass and bronze products. All of our patinated metal pieces are finished with a protective beeswax or lacquer coating and therefore regular dusting is required to ensure the patina's longevity.
   
   
8. A Clean, Damp Cloth: Using a new or clean microfibre cloth, soak the cloth in hot water for 5 - 10 minutes. Wring the cloth out, then gently wipe down your copper, brass or bronze piece. If required, gently pat dry with a secondary, dry microfibre cloth.
   
   
9. Mild, Non-Abrasive Solutions: As our patinated pieces have been sealed with a protective beeswax or lacquer coating, clean regularly with mild, non-abrasive solutions, to help to maintain and ensure the integrity of the patina. 
   

REMEMBER! 
Always test any cleaning method or product on a small, inconspicuous area of the metal before applying it to the entire surface. For example, the back of a clock. This will help ensure that the cleaning method or product does not cause any damage or discoloration. 

If you are ever unsure about the best way to clean or care for your Empire Copper piece please reach out to us via email at contact@empirecopper.com or via Instagram or Facebook.

- With Love, 
Cam and Beth