Copper Table Top Guide | How to care for your copper furnishings
Copper is a surprisingly resistant metal that is easy to maintain. Our copper tops are made from solid sheets of recycled copper that have a patina applied, are then pounded around a wood core and finally wax coating is applied for protection. Copper can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth and soap. For more detailed instructions on how to care for your copper table top please read the bullet points bellow.
Fun fact: Copper has the same natural antibacterial properties as silver.
How to maintain your copper table top?
- Cleaning: Use mild soap, warm water, and a clean soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals, or disinfectant that could break down the protective wax and react with the copper.
- Waxing & Protecting: To protect your copper table top and keep the copper
sealed, apply clear paste wax every few weeks. This will preserve the finish
and protect against spills and oxidation. First, apply a very thin coat of any
commercially available furniture or wood floor paste wax. Briwax is best, but
Johnson's, Minwax, or any other clear paste wax found at your local hardware
store would work just fine. Let the wax dry for five to ten minutes. Then buff to
a glossy sheen using a clean, dry cotton cloth. Each additional thin coat of wax
makes the copper look richer and more beautiful. While waxing protects the
copper, not waxing it will let the copper furniture age over time which can turn
it into something more unique and bring out a beauty all its own.
- Avoid Lacquer: Never ever seal your copper with lacquer.
- Avoid Chemical Cleaners: You can dust your table by using nonabrasive cloth
after every meal. You may also use mild soap and water. However, you should
avoid using cleansers that have harsh chemicals as ingredients.
- Protect Against Heat Marks: Such marks can become visible from very hot
pots and pans, so use a hot pad or server for anything that comes directly from
the oven or stove top.
- Scratches & Stains: Copper is a soft metal and sharp utensils can scratch and
gouge the surface. If your copper furniture becomes scratched or stained, the
best thing to do is - nothing! Leave the affected area alone and let it be exposed
to the air until the copper begins to regain its original color (just like how a shiny
copper penny turns brown). The amount of time required for this process varies,
but it is typically on the order of a few weeks. Once the affected area has healed
itself and the original color tones have recovered, the copper should be sealed
again with paste wax to preserve and protect the finish. Though the scratch
will not technically be removed, it will not be visible once it turns back to the
original color.
You can also download our complete copper table guide in PDF form.
We cover design benefits, styles, use ideas, and care of copper in this guide. To download please click on the "Download Now" link below:
Download now >
To purchase a copper top dining table or occasional table follow these links:
To shop our collection of tables with copper top options please click here. To purchase a copper top alone please click here
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