Cleaning welded copper involves removing tarnish and discoloration while being mindful of the welding joints. Here's a method utilizing readily available materials:
Cleaning Welded Copper with Lemon and Salt
One effective method for cleaning copper, especially useful for items with welded joints, is using lemon and salt.
Why Lemon and Salt?
- Lemon: The citric acid in lemon juice reacts with the tarnish, breaking its bond with the copper surface. This makes it easier to remove the tarnish.
- Salt: Salt acts as a mild abrasive, helping to scrub away the loosened tarnish without scratching the copper. The reference confirms that salt is used as a mild abrasive.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Prepare the Lemon and Salt Mixture:
- Cut a lemon in half.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of salt onto the cut side of the lemon.
- Scrub the Copper:
- Gently rub the salted lemon directly onto the tarnished copper surface, including around the welded areas. Apply light pressure.
- The combination of the lemon juice and salt will lift the tarnish.
- Rinse Thoroughly:
- Rinse the copper item completely with warm water to remove all traces of lemon juice and salt.
- Dry and Polish:
- Dry the copper item thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth.
- Buff the surface to restore its shine.
Additional Tips
- For heavily tarnished areas: Make a paste of lemon juice and salt. Apply the paste to the tarnished area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently.
- Gentle Approach: Be gentle around the weld joints to avoid damaging them.
- Alternatives: You can also use vinegar and salt as an alternative, as vinegar also contains acid.
- Prevention: After cleaning, consider applying a copper protectant to slow down future tarnishing.
