Copper and Brass Cleaning Instructions | Expert Tips for Sparkling Products - Copper Direct

Copper & Brass Care Guide

Expert Tips to Keep Your Products Sparkling | CopperDirect

At CopperDirect, we believe in the timeless beauty and health benefits of copper and brass. To help you maintain their shine and quality for years to come, we’ve put together simple, expert-recommended care instructions for your copper water bottles, mule mugs, and brassware.

How to Care for Your Copper Water Bottle

1. Handwash Only
Always wash your copper bottle by hand. Avoid using a dishwasher as it can cause oxidation and damage the outer finish.

2. Use Soft Materials
Clean the bottle with a soft cloth or sponge. Immediately dry it with a soft towel to prevent water spots and tarnishing.

3. Removing Tarnish (For Outer Surface):
If the bottle appears dull or tarnished over time:

• Pour 1 tsp of salt into a shallow bowl.
• Cut a lemon in half and dip the cut side into the salt.
• Gently scrub the exterior in circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

4. Cleaning the Inside:

• Add 1 tsp of salt and juice from half a lemon.
• Shake well or scrub gently with a bottle brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry.

5. For Squeaky Lids:
Apply a small amount of coconut or olive oil to the bottle threading to reduce friction and squeaking.

Caring for Copper Mule Mugs & Vessels

1. Rinse After Use
Wash your mug with mild soap and lukewarm water after each use. Dry immediately with a soft cloth.

2. Restore Shine:
If tarnish appears:

• Mix 4 tsp of salt in a bowl.
• Dip lemon halves into the salt and scrub both inside and outside.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Brassware Care (Champagne Glasses & More)

1. Gentle Cleaning
Rinse brass items with mild soapy water. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the surface.

2. Double Drying
Dry once with a soft cloth, then again with a fresh dry cloth to ensure all moisture is removed.

3. Dealing with Tarnish:

• Use salted lemon halves (4 tsp salt + lemon) to scrub in circular motions.
• Wipe with a damp cloth, then dry.
• Alternatively, make a paste with 2 dabs of plain toothpaste and ½ tsp of salt.
• Apply with a soft cloth, then wipe clean with a slightly damp cloth and dry.

Understanding Blackening of Copper Vessels

Copper vessels may develop a dark or black layer on the inside over time. This is a natural and safe reaction between copper and water, known as the Oligodynamic Effect, where trace copper ions dissolve in water and provide antimicrobial benefits.

• The inside of the bottle is intentionally uncoated to allow this beneficial process.
• The outside is often lacquer-coated to preserve its shine and prevent external oxidation.

This blackening is not harmful and does not indicate poor quality. Instead, it reflects the natural, beneficial properties of copper.

Conclusion

With just a little regular care, your copper and brass products from CopperDirect will remain as elegant and functional as the day you bought them.
Explore our full range of handcrafted copper bottles, mugs, dispensers, and jewelry—built for beauty, tradition, and health.

Shop now at CopperDirect.com.au and embrace the charm of timeless craftsmanship.