Copper cups are the drink of choice for signature well drinks such as Moscow Mules and Dark Tempest. They add a rustic touch to your barware and are excellent heat conductors to keep cold drinks chilled in the summer or hot drinks (such as hot cider) warm in the fall. Not surprisingly, copper cups require special care. Follow these guidelines for proper cleaning and polishing techniques so you can maximize the safety of your guests and extend the life of your copper cups.

What does it take to clean a copper cup

Cleaning copper cups: It is best to use mild dish soap and a soft sponge to avoid corroding or scratching the metal.

Dry copper cups: Use a soft cotton or linen cloth to dry metal cups, rather than polyester or synthetic cloths, as they may scratch the surface.

How to clean copper cups

Follow these instructions for proper copper cup care:

Using a soft sponge, mild soap, and warm water, scrub the copper cup in a circular motion until you remove debris and other dirt.

Rinse the cup with warm water to remove soap and particles.

Dry the cup thoroughly with a soft rag.

Use a second dish towel to dry the cup again.

* Note: Any residual water or moisture will cause the copper cup to oxidize and tarnish, so it must be dried a second time to maintain the shine and keep the copper intact.

Can copper cups be washed in the dishwasher?

Copper cups are not usually dishwasher safe. Many copper cups come with a lining or food safety paint to protect the copper and prevent customers from coming into contact with potential copper. Dishwashers use harsh soap, washing and heating techniques that can easily weaken the lining or coating. Not only will your copper cup tarnish and look weathered, but it may also pose a small but unlikely risk to your customers. For these reasons, it is important to clean coated or lined copper cups by hand.

Can unlined copper cups be washed in the dishwasher?

Technically, 100% pure, unlined copper cups can be dishwasher washed because they don't have a lining that will corrode. However, we still strongly recommend hand-washing unlined copper cups to maintain quality, as they are a delicate item that is prone to dents and discoloration. Moscow Mule wine is generally safe to drink from pure unlined copper cups, although it has raised concerns in the past.

Are lined copper cups dishwasher safe?

Lined copper cups are not dishwasher friendly. Many copper cups are plated with nickel, stainless steel or tin, or lined with these materials. This extra support makes the mug more durable, and any contact with the copper can be avoided as long as it is washed by hand correctly. If these copper cups are not cleaned by hand, the lining may crack or flake in the dishwasher.

How to remove rust from copper

Over time, your copper cup may lose its luster and patina because copper naturally reacts with oxygen in the air. If you want to give your copper cup a glamorous glow, you can easily treat your copper cup with products from your kitchen.

How to remove rust on copper with lemon and salt

Pour 4 tablespoons of salt into a shallow bowl.

Cut the lemon into quarters.

Dip the slices in salt until completely covered.

Use salt-covered lemon slices to scrub the inside and outside of the cup in a circular motion.

Rinse with water.

Dry thoroughly twice with a separate soft rag.

How to remove rust on copper with vinegar and baking soda

Make a paste with 3 parts baking soda and 1 part vinegar.

Using a sponge, cover the cup with the paste.

Let the paste sit for 5-10 minutes.

Scrub the cup with a sponge in a circular motion to remove stains.

Rinse with water.

Dry thoroughly twice with a separate soft rag.

How to remove rust on copper with vinegar, salt and water

Mix one cup of vinegar with one tablespoon of salt and four to five cups of water.

Place the copper cup in a pot and bring the water to a boil.

Keep boiling until the copper is tarnished.

Remove with pliers.

If needed, scrub further with a cloth or soft brush.

Rinse thoroughly with a separate soft rag and dry twice.

How to remove rust on copper with tomato sauce

Apply ketchup with a soft brush or a crumpled cloth.

Let sit for 10-30 minutes.

Scrub with a cloth in circular motions to remove the ketchup. Use a toothbrush to remove visible stains or small gaps.

Rinse with water.

Dry thoroughly twice with a separate soft rag.

How to remove rust on copper with metal polish

Apply an appropriate amount of metal polish to a soft cloth or directly to a copper cup.

Wipe with a soft dry cloth.

Wipe with a soft, clean cloth to add shine.

No matter what type of cup you choose, be sure to hand wash the copper cup, dry it thoroughly, and polish it as needed. With proper care, your guests can always enjoy a delicious cocktail in a classic copper cup.