How to Remove Oxidization Stains from Copper Cups & Bottles: A Practical Guide
Copper cups and bottles are beautiful, functional, and have excellent health benefits—but over time, they tend to lose their shine and develop green or black oxidation stains. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals to get them sparkling again. Here’s a simple, practical guide using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
🔧 What You’ll Need:
- Lemon or lime (you can also use vinegar)
- Salt
- Baking soda (optional, for stubborn spots)
- A soft cloth or sponge
- Warm water
🧽 Step-by-Step Cleaning Method:
1. Slice the Lemon
Cut a lemon or lime in half. You’ll be using it like a sponge.
2. Dip in Salt
Sprinkle salt onto the exposed lemon flesh. The salt acts as a gentle abrasive to help scrub away the tarnish.
3. Scrub the Copper
Rub the lemon (salt side down) over the oxidized surface. Apply light pressure and move in circular motions. You’ll see the tarnish start to lift almost immediately.
4. Use Baking Soda for Tough Stains
If some stains are being stubborn, sprinkle a bit of baking soda directly on the copper and keep scrubbing with the lemon.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the item with warm water to remove all residue. Avoid using soap if you’re using the bottle or cup for drinking purposes, as soap can interfere with the copper’s natural benefits.
6. Dry Completely
Wipe dry with a soft cloth to avoid water spots, and polish gently to bring out the shine.
✨ Extra Tips:
- Do this cleaning routine every couple of weeks if you use your copper bottle or cup daily
- Avoid putting copper items in the dishwasher
- Never let water sit in a copper vessel for too long—empty and dry it after use
🧡 Why Bother?
Keeping your copper items clean isn’t just about looks—it also helps preserve the antibacterial properties that make copper such a great choice for drinkware.
