How to Clean Copper Mugs and Keep them Clean

The short answer is no. Copper mugs are not dishwasher safe, in most cases. Dishwashers use chemicals and high-temperature water, which can cause tarnishing and other damage. They can also disintegrate the lacquer lining present in most commercial-grade copper mugs, which can end up in guests’ drinks down the road and pose a health hazard.

This is not a risk involved when using unlined mugs, but without lining, the copper is even more prone to tarnishing – it’s a double-edged sword.

Our advice? Stick to hand washing.

Cleaning copper mugs is important to ensure that they remain in good condition and do not corrode. Copper mugs can easily become tarnished if not cared for properly, so it’s important to clean them regularly with a mild dish soap and warm water.

As iron rust develops, copper will gradually become rusty when exposed to air moisture or other contaminants.

Whether lined copper mugs are dishwasher safe depends on the specific lining material used. It’s generally recommended to hand wash lined copper mugs to ensure their longevity and preserve the integrity of the lining.

The best way to clean tarnished copper is by using one of the methods mentioned above: Metal Cleaner, Lemon and Salt, or Vinegar and Baking Soda.

Over time, copper can tarnish and lose some of its shine and luster, and using vinegar is a good solution for removing tarnish and bringing back the brilliant shine of your copper pieces.

However, it is important to note that vinegar should not be used on copper with a lacquered or sealed finish, due to copper toxicity and its acidic nature, as it can damage the protective coating.

Overall, cleaning copper with white vinegar” is safe and effective for many types of copper, and is a great way to restore them.

While keeping your copper items clean is important, it’s equally important to be mindful of what you use to clean them.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these can scratch and damage the surface of the copper. Additionally, avoid using acidic or harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, as these can corrode the metal and cause it to become discolored.

Instead, stick to gentle cleaners such as mild soap or specialized copper cleaning products and always read the labels to ensure they are safe for use on copper.

Yes, unfortunately, all copper mugs tarnish sooner or later. Tarnishing is a natural process that occurs when copper oxidizes and reacts with the surrounding air and moisture.

The good news is that tarnishing can give your copper mug a unique and vintage look, and with proper care, you can slow down the process and even completely remove the tarnished parts.

So, while tarnishing may be inevitable, it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker for enjoying your favorite beverage in a classic copper mug.

To hand wash copper and a copper surface, rinse it with dish soap, scrub gently with a sponge, rinse again, and dry thoroughly. Avoid using textured or synthetic cloths that may scratch the surface. Double-dry the copper with a fresh cloth to prevent oxidation and ensure all moisture is removed.

This is a great way to clean copper cups but also copper cookware and copper pots. However, for badly tarnished copper cookware and copper pans, using metal cleaners or lemon juice and salt is a better alternative.

Absolutely, copper cups are safe to wash, and you can clean copper naturally too. In fact, we recommend washing copper cups regularly with dish soap and warm water to avoid tarnishing and discoloration.