A simple and effective way to clean copper utensils involves using a paste made from baking soda and lemon juice. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Cleaning Copper with Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
This method is quick, easy, and uses common household ingredients.
Materials You'll Need:
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Water
Steps:
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Make a Paste: Mix baking soda and lemon juice in a small bowl to form a thick paste. The paste should be thick enough to adhere to the copper surface.
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Apply the Paste: Apply the paste to the tarnished areas of the copper utensil. Ensure the entire tarnished area is covered.
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Let it Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the copper for a few minutes. This allows the acid in the lemon juice and the mild abrasive action of the baking soda to loosen the tarnish.
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Scrub Gently: Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface of the copper in circular motions. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch the copper.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the copper utensil thoroughly with water to remove all traces of the baking soda and lemon juice paste.
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Dry Immediately: Dry the copper utensil immediately with a clean, dry cloth. This will help prevent water spots and further tarnishing.
This method is effective for removing tarnish and restoring the shine of your copper utensils. Remember to always dry the copper thoroughly after cleaning to prevent future tarnishing.
