How To Properly Maintain Japanese Kitchenware: A Guide To Caring For Copper

Japanese kitchenware, renowned for its craftsmanship and durability, is often made out of quality materials including copper. Copper is well-known for its anti-bacterial properties and its even heat distribution, but taking care of it takes a little bit of getting used to, especially if you are a first-time copper kitchenware owner. This guide will thoroughly explain how to care for copper kitchenware so that you can enjoy using it for years to come. 

How To Take Care Of Copperware

We sell copperware products from different reputable Japanese manufacturers, including Wahei Freiz, Wadasuke, and Nakamura. Copperware might be a less common form of cookware in households, but is it oftentimes the go-to cookware choice for chefs due to its even heat retention. If you purchase a copper cookware product, follow these simple instructions to take care of it. 

1. Avoid using high heat during cooking.
2. After cooking with a copper pot or pan, allow it to cool before washing it. 
3. Use a soft sponge with a mild kitchen detergent, and be sure to dry the pot or pan completely.
4. If the pot or pan is heavily soiled, you can use a tougher sponge but take care not to scrub too vigorously to avoid damaging the tin lining.
5. Never leave the pot empty on the heat source.
6. Copper is sensitive to both acid and chlorine, so if you leave food in copper pans for an extended period, the taste or color may change. It's advisable to transfer the cooked food to another container shortly after cooking to maintain its quality.

Note(s): Keep in mind that many copper products sold on Japanese Taste are handmade by skilled artisans, so minor variations may occur. Be aware that the copper may undergo a color change and/or lose its shininess over time. This is a completely natural process though. 

Is Copper Compatible With IH Or Electric?

Unfortunately copper is not compatible with IH or electric stoves. Copper is only compatible with gas, so please keep this in mind if you are looking to purchase a copper kitchenware item. 

If Green Rust Forms On My Copperware?

The green rust, known as verdigris, is harmless. It primarily consists of basic copper carbonate. In the past, it was considered highly poisonous due to its unappealing green hue. However, in August 1984, the Ministry of Health and Welfare confirmed that verdigris is indeed harmless. It doesn't dissolve in water and does not accumulate in the body. In simpler terms, if you continue to use copper items with verdigris after washing them, there is absolutely no hygiene concern. You can use them without any worries.

How To Get Rid Of The Green Rust (Verdigris)

You can effectively remove verdigris by using vinegar and salt or a cream cleanser. Here's how:

1. Soak a cloth or sponge in a mixture of vinegar and an equal amount of salt.
2. Gently rub the verdigris to remove it.
3. Afterward, wash the item with dishwashing detergent to ensure it's clean and safe to use.
4. Alternatively, you can also rub it with cream cleanser using a soft sponge.

What Do I Do If My Copper Product Changes Color?

Caring for your copper items will enhance their appearance and give them a beautiful, understated color called patina. However, if your copper items have been tin-plated, avoid using metal utensils that could harm the surface, similar to how you'd treat items with a fluorine resin coating. Keep in mind that copper is sensitive to heat, so it's important to refrain from heating an empty pan to prevent any damage.

Please note that in order to provide the most accurate information in this article, all of the information and tips provided have been provided directly by the manufacturers of copperware that we carry in our store.

Want to learn how to take care of other kinds of Japanese kitchenware? Check out our articles on caring for iron and stainless steel kitchenware, and this guide for knives.