Whatever You Do, Don't Put This Type Of Cookware In The Dishwasher

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The dishwasher might just be one of the greatest inventions of the 19th century thanks to its myriad time, energy, and cost-saving benefits. And yet, while it may be a little too easy to just chuck everything into the handy appliance after you've spent hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm, it's best that you don't do that, especially when it comes to copper cookware. It's generally considered best practice not to stick any kind of cookware in the dishwasher since most of these items are prone to ruining and warping. That said, while some, like stainless steel pots or enameled cast-iron pans, are (surprisingly) dishwasher-safe kitchen tools, the same can't be said for copper cookware. 

The reason why has everything to do with the material. Copper is highly reactive, hence why pots and pans are often lined with tin to prevent chemical leaching. Just as it can easily corrode when it comes into contact with high-acid foods, the same can be said for the harsh detergents and ultra-high temperature settings inside a dishwasher. In fact, chemical cleaners (namely, those containing bleach) can even strip the copper of its color and shine along with wearing away at the material.

Putting copper cookware in the dishwasher also puts it at risk of becoming scratched, which can reduce the aesthetics and functionality of the items over time. Likewise, even copper cookware that's lined with tin or stainless steel can also become susceptible to rusting as a round in the dishwasher can strip away this protective coating too. 

Since copper pots and pans, and even drinkware fit for slinging Moscow Mules, are among the kitchen items you should never put in the dishwasher, this means that the best way to clean cookware is to do so by hand. Once it has cooled completely, use warm water and a mild dish washing liquid to clean the soiled surfaces. Since the material lends itself easily to scuffing and scratching, it's also best not to scrub items with abrasive sponges or tough scouring tools — a soft brush is best, and always go easy. After rinsing clean, be sure to dry the cookware well as copper is also susceptible to oxidation.

If pots and pans are heavily soiled with stuck-on bits of food, or caked with leftover liquids that have caramelized to the extreme, don't fret. You can either let the cookware soak or add some water to a pot and boil to help loosen grime. Another remedy is to simply scatter a touch of baking soda on the affected surface before washing, to help lift bits.

To really make copper cookware shine, items can occasionally be polished using a clean microfiber cloth and a dedicated polishing agent like Wright's Copper Cream Cleaner. They can also be buffed with a paste made of lemon juice and salt, or even a dab or ketchup. Using a circular motion, polish all around the pot or pan, before giving cookware a rinse to remove any residues and drying thoroughly.