Copper cookware is often called the “jewellery of the kitchen.” It offers unparalleled thermal conductivity, but many home cooks are intimidated by its maintenance. If you've invested in the Hestan CopperBond collection, you aren’t just working with standard copper; you're working with a professional-grade 5-layer system designed for a lifetime of use. We are here to show you the best way to clean copper cookware.
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6 Years of Cooking: Proof is in the Pan
A pan is only as good as the meals it produces. We've owned our Hestan CopperBond 3.5 qt. Braiser since 2020. It has survived high-heat sears and acidic sauces, and as you can see in our video, it still looks like it just came out of the box.
Disclaimer: We are Hestan Culinary Ambassadors, and all of the options in this best way to clean copper post are our own!
🎥Cleaning the Hestan CopperBond Braiser Video
A pan is only as good as the meals it produces. Over the last six years, our CopperBond Braiser has been our most-used “workhorse.” From delicate seafood to hearty ragus, it has handled it all.
Here is a look at the journey this single pan has taken (and why we trust it):
The Seafood Classics: From Spicy Linguine with Clams (2020) and Cioppino (2020) to Risotto with Lobster (2023).
High-Heat Searing: Perfecting Gambas al Ajillo (2020) and Garlic Sautéed Shrimp (2023).
Slow Braises & Sauces: Spicy Italian Sausage Ragu (2020) and our recent Easy Tomato Braised Chicken (2026).
Versatile Kitchen Prep: Whether it's baking Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups (2023) or sautéing the perfect leek filling for Salmon en Croute (2024), this pan is our go-to for every step of the process.
Even after years of frequent use across all these recipes, this pan still cleans up beautifully and regains its original radiant glow every time.
Hestan CopperBond Maintenance: Why Design Matters
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it's important to understand why Hestan CopperBond is unique. Unlike traditional copper pots that can be finicky or incompatible with modern kitchens, Hestan has re-engineered the experience:
- 100% Pure Copper Core: A thick internal copper layer ensures the pan heats up instantly and responds to temperature changes with precision.
- Induction Efficiency: Hestan CopperBond is induction-compatible! Hestan features a revolutionary wrap-around stainless steel base, making it durable and versatile for any stovetop.
- Chef-Inspired Flush Rivets: One of the hardest places to clean on a pan is around the rivets. Hestan uses flush rivets to prevent food buildup and allow for easy stacking without scratching.
The Essential Copper Cleaning Kit
Copper is a soft, precious metal. Using the wrong materials can lead to permanent swirling or scratches.
- Dawn Powerwash: This is our go-to for the initial wash. Spraying the pan with Dawn Powerwash breaks down surface oils and grease instantly, so you don’t have to scrub as hard to get the pan clean.
- The Golden Rule: Never use salt! While many DIY blogs suggest salt and lemon as an abrasive, it is too harsh for high-end copper.
- Bar Keepers Friend: The gold standard for stainless steel cleaning.
- The Soft Touch: Always use a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge.
- Copper Cleaners: Wright’s Copper Cream is our choice, but any other quality commercial copper polish will work.
How to Clean Copper Cookware: The Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this routine from start to finish to ensure your cookware remains a centerpiece of your kitchen.
- The “Heat & Soak” Method (For Stubborn Food)
If you have stuck-on proteins or burnt-on sauces, don’t scrub. Instead, use the temperature to your advantage:
• Fill the pan with an inch or two of water.
• Place it back on the stovetop over low to medium heat.
• As the water warms, use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently lift the food residue.
• Once loose, discard the water and let the pan cool. This “deglazing” technique is the safest way to clean without scratching the interior. - The Cool Down
Never plunge a hot copper pan into cold water. This can cause thermal shock. Let the pan reach room temperature naturally before starting the cleaning process.
- The Initial Wash
Spray with Dawn Powerwash or wash the interior and exterior with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. This removes surface grease and food particles. Because of the flush rivets, you’ll find there are fewer “trap zones” for burnt-on bits.
- Removing Tarnish and Heat Tint
On the Stainless Steel: Use Bar Keepers Friend, apply directly onto the wet pan or damp sponge. Then rub into the soiled surfaces.
On the Copper: Copper naturally oxidizes (turns brown or develops a patina) when exposed to air and heat. If you want that bright shine back, use a professional copper cleaner, like Wright's Cream. Apply a small amount to a damp cloth, rub in a circular motion, and watch the oxidation disappear.
- Rinse and Immediate Dry
Rinse the pan thoroughly in warm water.
- Dry the Pan
Crucial Step: Dry the pan immediately with a clean microfiber towel. Water spots are the enemy of a mirror finish; air-drying will leave streaks.
Pro “Don’ts” for Long-Lasting Copper
- Never Put Copper in the Dishwasher: High heat and harsh detergents will dull the copper.
- No Abrasive Cleaners or Sponges: This causes permanent scratches.
- Don’t Panic at the “Rainbow”: If your pan develops a blue/purple “heat tint,” copper cleaner will clear it off.
- Interior vs. Exterior: Remember that Hestan CopperBond has a stainless steel interior. You can be a bit more thorough on the inside stainless steel to remove stuck-on food, but keep the “soft touch” strictly for the exterior copper.
By following these steps, your Hestan CopperBond will remain a high-performance tool and a stunning visual asset in your kitchen for decades to come.
Our 9-Year Partnership with Hestan
We’ve been cooking with Hestan cookware since 2017. We partner only with companies that have both exceptional products and great people. (All of the options in this post are always our own). Because we truly believe in these pans, we have a special 20% offer for you when you shop at HestanCulinary.com (or click on any of the links in this post) and enter the code: ZIMMY20. The additional 20% discount is not available during promotional periods.
Whether you're a copper pro or just starting your collection, we are here to help. Leave your questions in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!
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