How to Clean and Care for a Copper Backsplash — The Complete Guide
IBRAHIM GULSUNNatuross copper panels are sealed with a professional-grade clear lacquer — the same protective coating used in architectural metalwork. This lacquer permanently locks in the color and patina at the time of production. The finish you see when your panel arrives is the finish it will keep for many years. No polishing, no re-sealing, no waxing needed — just keep it clean.
If you have a specific question about your panel, start a live chat — Ibrahim responds personally.
Everyday Cleaning
For routine cleaning after cooking, wipe the copper surface with a soft damp cloth — that is usually all you need. For grease or cooking splashes, use warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Wipe the surface, then dry with a soft cloth.
That is the complete routine. It takes about 30 seconds and keeps the panel looking its best.
Use: Soft cloth, microfiber cloth, mild dish soap, warm water.
Avoid: Bleach, ammonia, acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice), abrasive pads, steel wool, and strong oven degreasers. These can scratch or dull the lacquer surface.
The Lacquer Finish — What to Expect Over Time
The clear lacquer is factory-applied and durable, but like all protective coatings it is not permanent forever. Under normal kitchen conditions it will last many years without any attention. Over a long period of heavy daily use, the lacquer will gradually wear — and when it does, customers have two paths:
Option 1 — Reapply clear lacquer: Clean the panel thoroughly, let it dry completely, and apply a standard clear lacquer spray (available at any hardware store). Apply a thin, even coat and allow it to cure fully before use. This restores the protective coating and maintains the original finish appearance.
Option 2 — Let it age naturally: Once the lacquer wears, the copper underneath will begin to develop its own natural patina — deepening, darkening, and changing character over time. Many customers prefer this outcome. A naturally aged copper panel has a warmth and depth that the original lacquered finish does not. This path requires no action — simply continue cleaning as normal and let the copper evolve.
Neither option is wrong. It is a matter of personal preference — maintain the original finish with lacquer, or embrace the natural aging of the metal beneath.
Heat and Stove Safety
Copper panels are heat-resistant and safe behind stoves and cooktops for normal daily cooking. Wipe grease splashes promptly with mild soap and warm water. For heavier buildup, use a soft sponge with warm soapy water — no abrasives. Direct open flame on the metal surface is not recommended.
Wet Areas and Outdoor Use
The lacquer coating makes Natuross panels fully suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, shower areas, and outdoor installations. Copper is naturally antimicrobial. No special treatment is needed for wet or humid environments — simply wipe dry after heavy water exposure if preferred.
What to Avoid — The Critical List
The lacquer surface is durable but not impervious to harsh chemicals. The following will scratch or dull the lacquer and should never be used on your panel:
- Acidic cleaners: Vinegar, lemon juice, and most commercial kitchen and bathroom sprays are acidic and will dull the lacquer.
- Abrasive pads and powders: Steel wool, scouring pads, and abrasive cleaning powders will scratch the surface.
- Bleach and ammonia: These will permanently damage the lacquer finish.
- Strong oven degreasers: Most commercial oven cleaners are too aggressive for the lacquer surface. Use mild dish soap instead.
Complete Care Summary
- Wipe with a damp cloth or mild soap and water — that’s all.
- Avoid bleach, ammonia, acidic cleaners, abrasive pads, and strong degreasers.
- No polishing, waxing, or re-sealing needed.
- Over many years: reapply clear lacquer spray to maintain the original finish, or let the copper age naturally — your choice.
Questions? Start a live chat — Ibrahim responds personally. Full care guide at natuross.com/pages/care-guide.
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