Restore Your Copper Cookware With This Dairy Product

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Brand new copper cookware is a sight to behold. The glistening, luxe color and smooth, mirror-like surface leave you longing to display them all around the kitchen. In fact, copper cookware is so cherished that Gourmet Web says it has been used for over 9,000 years. 

Copper is an excellent heat conductor, conducting more heat than iron and stainless steel. It is durable, corrosion-resistant, and contains antibacterial properties. Copper is known to ward off bacteria and viruses, and studies by the American Society For Microbiology prove this to be true.

There are so many reasons why copper cookware makes a fine addition to your kitchen. Over time, though, those shiny pots and pans may tarnish. According to The Spruce Eats, copper pans tarnish more quickly when left to air dry. The site recommends avoiding harsh cleaning agents to remove these discolored areas on the cookware. How can you restore your copper cookware to its shiny, gleaming state? Here's what you need to know.

Use yogurt to restore your copper

Yogurt contains lactic acid, which works wonders on tarnished copper and brass (via The Kitchn). The outlet says to open a brand-new container of plain yogurt and apply a thin layer over the tarnished metal. Allow the yogurt to penetrate the copper for 30 minutes. As the lactic acid works to restore the metal, the yogurt will begin turning green. After 30 minutes, remove the yogurt by buffing it away with a soft cloth. This is a safe and effective way to bring that shine back to your beloved copper cookware and cooking utensils.

Lactic acid has long been known for its ability to brighten and exfoliate the skin. According to Sephora, lactic acid loosens the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal a fresh, smooth complexion. According to Organic Authority, the lactic acid and alpha hydroxy acids in yogurt are excellent for the facial skin, helping to create a natural glow.

If lactic acid helps to reveal your skin's radiant complexion, why not use it on your copper cookware to bring back its radiant beauty as well? Bye-bye tarnish — hello, shine!