Imogene Knightall of Everett starts us off today with this SOS: “I am looking for a recipe that is not edible,” she writes. “I need the homemade recipe for cleaning the bottom of my Revere Ware cooking pots.
“I have always used Cameo brand or Bartender’s Friend and can no longer find them in any of the stores. I had a recipe, but can’t find it. When I ask the stores, they bring out a metal cleaner that doesn’t work.”
Winding up, Imogene adds, “I have a habit of cutting out your recipes and trying lots of them. I love to cook and contribute my dishes to potlucks each month.”
Now, for Imogene and others in the same copper-cleaning boat, let’s take a look at what we have on file to date.
In a May 9, 1998, Forum column, Lucille Hansen of Langley told us, “I got my Revere Ware copper-bottom pans in 1947 as a wedding present. They have been in constant use since then.
“I have always just sprinkled salt on the bottoms and, with my fingers, rubbed a little vinegar into the salt. This cleans and shines the pans in a jiffy — just like new.”
Next, Carol Beam of Everett, in a July 12, 1997, Forum, answered the question about how to safely clean old copper items by telling us, “Ketchup! Smear it liberally over the copper item and let stand overnight. Wash thoroughly, then stand back and admire.”
If Carol’s suggestion sounds sort of bizarre, let me assure you that it works. Like a charm, in fact.
One downpour of a day, with two embarrassingly grungy but treasured antique copper teakettles, one bottle of ketchup, and two incredibly wonderful grandsons (Keegan and Conner) eager to try this technique, in mere minutes, I had gorgeous, gleaming copper teakettles!
Then, in the same column, Edmonds contributor L.C. Short took the time to jot down the following recipe and cautioned, “Be sure to store this mixture out of the reach of children.”
Brass and copper cleaner
1/2cup flour
1/2cup salt
1/2cup powdered detergent
3/4cup white distilled vinegar
1/4cup lemon juice
1/2cup very warm water
In large glass bowl, mix together well the flour, salt and detergent.
Pour in remaining ingredients and stir well.
Transfer mixture to a glass quart jar, close tightly and label. Store out of the reach of children.
To use the cleaner, shake jar briskly, then pour some of the mixture onto the copper or brass item and rub gently with a dishcloth. For tough spots, scrub with an old toothbrush or soft, nonscratch scouring pad, preferably a plastic one.
Rinse the item with clear water and polish with a soft cloth.
Since it’s been quite some time since we’ve had any input on this subject, there may be newly discovered formulas or techniques to get the job done.
If you have one to share, please write to Judyrae Kruse at the Forum, c/o The Herald, P.O. Box 930, Everett, WA 98206.
We are always happy to receive your contributions and requests, but please remember that all letters and all e-mail must include a name, complete address with ZIP code and telephone number with area code.
No exceptions and sorry, but no response to e-mail by return e-mail; send to kruse@heraldnet.com.
The next Forum will appear in Monday’s Time Out section.
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