The Ultimate Guide to Naturally Cleaning Copper and Brass Vessels
Posted by EKTA TANWAR
Don't be intimidated by the cleaning process for copper items. Although the material has a charming sheen, removing tarnish from copper pots, pans, mugs, or bowls may seem daunting. But fear not. Learning how to clean copper is simpler than you may think. This soft metal is valued for its ability to conduct heat, but it requires a little more care and attention than other materials to avoid grime buildup. Copper Cookware mistakes can be made when cleaning copper cookware, so it's important to know the proper care techniques. The effort is well worth it, though, as well-maintained copper will reward you with decades of use and beauty in your kitchen.
Pitambari vs Natural Methods
- Pitambari is a traditional cleaning and polishing method used in India for centuries. It involves rubbing the surface of an object with a paste made from natural ingredients such as turmeric, alum, oil, ash, lime juice, tamarind juice, and other herbal extracts.
- Natural methods, however, use natural cleaning products such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, essential oils, and even coconut oil. These ingredients are usually eco-friendly and safe for use on surfaces that may come in contact with food or drinks.
- Pitambari offers a quick way to restore the original shine and luster to an object, while natural methods may take longer but also provide a more thorough cleaning. Pitambari is best used on brass and copper items that have become dull or discolored over time due to oxidation.
The Easiest Way to Clean Brass and Copper
Tamarind water is one of the most effective and natural ways to clean brass and copper. This method has been used for centuries as a folk remedy. To use this method, start by soaking some tamarind in a bowl of warm water overnight.
Strain the liquid, then mix it with equal distilled white vinegar. Dip a cloth or sponge in the solution and apply it liberally to the brass or copper.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub softly with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean cloth. This method is especially useful for cleaning tarnished pieces that have been neglected.
Steps of Cleaning
- Mix equal parts of distilled white vinegar and tamarind water in a bowl.
- Dip a cloth or sponge in the solution and apply it liberally to the brass or copper item.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then scrub softly with a soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse the item with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
- For extra shine, apply a copper polish to the item. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper application.
- Finally, buff the brass or copper item with a soft cloth to
How to Clean Copper with Natural Methods?
1) Lemon and Salt: Cut a lemon in half and mix it with some coarse salt. Rub the mixture onto the copper item using circular motions. Leave it to sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it off with water.
2) Ketchup: Apply ketchup to the copper surface, let it sit for several minutes, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
3) Baking Soda: Make a paste using baking soda and water, apply it to the copper item, and leave it for about 15 minutes. Wipe off the excess paste with a damp cloth or sponge.
4) White Vinegar: Put some white vinegar in a bowl and soak the copper item for about an hour. Remove it, rinse it with water, and dry it with a soft cloth.
5) Toothpaste: Rub toothpaste onto the surface of the copper item using a clean cloth or sponge. Leave on for several minutes before rinsing off with water. Dry off with a soft cloth.
6) Lemon and Baking Soda: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with some lemon juice, spread the paste on the copper item, and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Wipe off the excess paste with a clean cloth or sponge and rinse off with water. Dry off with a soft cloth.
Conclusion
Even though it’s not difficult, cleaning copper takes some effort. In addition to following the tips above, you should also be sure only to use soft cloths and gentle sponges so as not to scratch or damage the surface of your copper items. Regular maintenance and proper care allow you to keep your copper looking new for years!
FAQs of Natural way of cleaning brass and copper
Q1. What is the use of Pitambari powder?
A1. Pitambari powder is a traditional Indian powder used for cleaning and polishing brass and copper items. It contains a mixture of ingredients, including tamarind, alum, ragi, salt, and other natural ingredients that work together to remove tarnish from metal surfaces.
Q2. What is a natural method of cleaning brass?
A2. Tamarind water is one of the most effective and natural methods of cleaning brass. To use this method, start by soaking some tamarind in a bowl of warm water overnight. Strain the liquid, then mix it with equal distilled white vinegar. Dip a cloth or sponge in the solution and apply it liberally to the brass item. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub softly with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean cloth. This method is especially useful for cleaning tarnished pieces that have been neglected.
Q3. Does lemon clean brass?
A3. Yes, lemon is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to clean brass. To use this method, cut a lemon in half and mix it with coarse salt. Rub the mixture onto the brass item using circular motions. Leave it to sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with water. Dry off with a soft cloth.
Q4. Is ketchup good for cleaning copper?
A4. Yes, ketchup is an effective and natural way to clean copper. To use this method, apply the ketchup to the copper surface, let it sit for several minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. This method is particularly useful for removing tarnishes from neglected pieces.