Avoid rubbing copper items when cleaning them since this can remove the thin coat of lacquer which has been applied to them for protection and to maintain their shine.

For lacquered items only dust them with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with a mild detergent and warm water. Then rinse and buff dry with a clean, soft cloth.

For lacquered copper items be sure to use a commercial copper cleaner that you rub off instead of wash off. This kind of method makes its easier to clean the handles and locks.

You can also try making your own cleaning by creating a paste made of equal parts salt and flour moistened with white vinegar. Leave this on until it fully dries. Rinse well with cold water and polish dry with a soft cloth.

If your item hasn’t been lacquered, you might want to spray or brush two coats of a transparent metal lacquer on the piece to avoid tarnishing.

After using a copper pan its suggested that it be cleaned, dried and polished immediately to avoid unwanted water marks or even rust as well as keeps the finish in tact and looking new.

Hang copper pot and pans from a rack to avoid scratches which can occur from being stacked on one another. If its not possible to  hang from a rack, consider purchasing paot and pans organizers which are placed inside the cabinet and keep the pots from piling up on each other. Purchase a lid organizer as well to seperate the lids.