HOW TO CLEAN YOUR PAANI COPPER CUPS PROPERLY: A GENTLE, TRADITIONAL GUIDE
Pure copper has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its natural ability to selfpurify water and support overall wellbeing. When cared for correctly, a Paani Copper Cup can last for many years, maintaining both its beauty and its purpose.
However, copper behaves differently from stainless steel, plastic or glass. It requires gentle, informed care, and a little understanding of how the metal naturally changes over time. Many people unintentionally damage copper cups by washing them incorrectly or scrubbing them with the wrong tools.
This guide explains how to care for your Paani Copper Cups properly, why the cleaning approach matters, and what to expect from pure copper as it naturally develops patina on the inside.
Why Copper Needs Special Cleaning
Copper is a reactive metal and that’s part of what makes it so unique. When exposed to air and water, pure copper slowly forms a natural patina, a soft darkening that appears on the untreated interior of your cup.
This is completely normal and a positive sign that you own real, pure copper. It does not affect safety, performance or water quality. In fact, patina is a natural stage in copper’s life cycle and has been embraced for generations in Ayurveda.
However, because copper is reactive, using the wrong cleaning tools can remove protective coatings or scratch the metal. This is why proper care is important.
Daily Cleaning: The Correct Way to Wash Your Copper Cup
Daily useage maintenance keeps your cup fresh without damaging the copper.
Daily Cleaning Steps:
- Rinse with lukewarm water: Avoid hot or boiling water.
- Clean the inside gently using your hand or a soft cloth: No harsh pressure is needed — copper is naturally antimicrobial.
- Avoid soap inside the cup: Water alone is sufficient for daily cleaning.
- Do not scrub the exterior: Paani cups have a protective lacquer coating on the outside to preserve the copper shine. Scrubbing, especially with abrasive pads, can damage this coating.
- Dry with soft cloth: Use a soft cloth to remove any water from the cup.
This simple routine aligns with traditional Ayurvedic practices and maintains the integrity of the metal.
Deep Cleaning to Maintain Shine (Interior Only)
Over time, the interior of your cup will naturally form patina. This is expected and does not need to be scrubbed away frequently. However, if you prefer a brighter interior, a gentle deep clean every 1–2 weeks works well.
Safe Deep Cleaning Method (Interior Only):
- Cut a lemon in half
- Add a small pinch of salt
- Rub the lemon gently around the inside of the cup
- Rinse with warm water
- Dry with a soft cloth
This natural method lifts oxidation gently without damaging the copper.
A Reassuring Note About Patina
The darkening that develops on the interior is known as patina. Patina is:
- a natural part of pure copper ageing
- a sign that your cup is authentic and uncoated inside
- not harmful in any way
- traditionally embraced in Ayurvedic households
Patina does not mean the cup is dirty or unsafe, it is the copper reacting naturally with water and oxygen. Many people prefer to leave patina because it represents the copper settling and maturing over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To protect the quality and longevity of your PAANI Copper Cup, avoid:
- Scrubbing the Exterior: The outside of Paani cups is coated with a protective lacquer to maintain shine. Scrubbing can remove or damage this coating.
- Using Abrasive Tools (Inside or Outside): Steel wool, scouring pads, or rough brushes can scratch the copper.
- Using Acidic or Carbonated Drinks Inside: Only still, plain water should be used. Liquids like juice, lemon water, fizzy water, alcohol or cocktails can react with copper.
- Dishwashers: High heat, detergent and pressure can damage naked copper and remove protective coatings.
- Boiling Water: Extreme temperatures can warp pure copper.
General Tips for Long-Term Care
- Use only still, plain water
- Rinse the cup daily
- Keep exterior cleaning gentle
- Allow patina to develop naturally inside
- Deep clean occasionally if you prefer a brighter look
- Always dry after rinsing
- Store in a cool, dry place
Gentle care helps maintain both the purpose and beauty of your Paani Copper Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) Why is the inside of my copper cup changing colour?
A: This is natural patina a normal, harmless reaction when pure copper meets water and oxygen. It indicates authentic, uncoated copper.
2) Can I scrub the outside of my PAANI cup?
A: No. The exterior has a protective coating to preserve its shine. Scrubbing can damage this layer.
3) Can I drink anything other than plain water from the cup?
A: No. Paani cups are designed for still, plain water only, based on Ayurvedic guidance and laboratory testing.
4) Is patina safe?
A: Yes. Patina is normal and safe. It does not affect the benefit or purity of the water as long as you follow the above.
5) Can I use dish soap inside the cup?
A: Daily cleaning does not require soap. Copper is naturally antimicrobial. For deep cleaning, natural methods like lemon and salt are recommended.