Copper tongue scrapers are a popular choice for oral hygiene, offering a natural and effective way to remove bacteria and debris from the tongue. However, their beautiful copper finish can tarnish over time due to exposure to moisture and air. A dull, tarnished scraper isn't just unsightly; it can also harbor more bacteria. Fortunately, cleaning a tarnished copper tongue scraper is relatively easy. This guide will walk you through several methods, ensuring your scraper remains hygienic and gleaming.
Why Does My Copper Tongue Scraper Tarnish?
Before we dive into cleaning methods, it's helpful to understand why copper tarnishes. Copper reacts with oxygen and sulfur in the air, forming a layer of copper sulfide – that's the dark, dull film you see. Moisture from saliva and rinsing accelerates this process. Regular cleaning is key to preventing excessive tarnishing and maintaining the hygiene of your scraper.
How to Clean a Tarnished Copper Tongue Scraper: Several Effective Methods
Here are several effective methods to clean your tarnished copper tongue scraper, ranging from simple everyday cleaning to more intensive deep cleans:
1. The Everyday Rinse & Wipe:
This is the most basic and crucial step. After each use, rinse your copper tongue scraper thoroughly with warm water and gently wipe it dry with a soft cloth. This prevents the buildup of tarnish and keeps your scraper clean and sanitary.
2. Baking Soda Paste:
This is a gentle yet effective method for removing light tarnish.
- Mix: Create a paste using baking soda and a little water.
- Apply: Gently rub the paste onto the tarnished areas of your scraper using a soft cloth or toothbrush.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely.
3. White Vinegar & Salt:
This method is slightly more aggressive and suitable for moderate tarnish.
- Combine: Mix equal parts white vinegar and salt in a small bowl.
- Soak: Submerge your copper scraper in the mixture for about 10-15 minutes. You might see some fizzing as the tarnish dissolves.
- Scrub: Gently scrub the scraper with a soft cloth or toothbrush.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely.
4. Lemon Juice & Salt:
Similar to the vinegar method, lemon juice's acidity helps remove tarnish.
- Combine: Mix equal parts lemon juice and salt.
- Apply: Apply the mixture to your copper scraper with a soft cloth or toothbrush, gently scrubbing the tarnished areas.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely.
5. Commercial Copper Cleaner:
For stubborn tarnish, a commercial copper cleaner specifically designed for cleaning copper items might be necessary. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
How Often Should I Clean My Copper Tongue Scraper?
You should rinse your copper tongue scraper thoroughly after every use. A more intensive cleaning (using baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice) should be performed at least once a week, or more frequently if you notice significant tarnish buildup.
What if My Copper Tongue Scraper is Heavily Tarnished?
For heavily tarnished scrapers, you might need to repeat the cleaning process a few times or try a combination of methods. If the tarnish is extremely stubborn, a commercial copper cleaner might be the best solution. Remember to always rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent further tarnishing and maintain hygiene.
Is it Safe to Use a Tarnished Copper Tongue Scraper?
While a tarnished copper tongue scraper isn't inherently dangerous, it's less hygienic. The tarnished layer can harbor bacteria, making regular cleaning essential.
Can I Use Abrasive Cleaners on My Copper Tongue Scraper?
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as these can scratch the surface of your copper tongue scraper, damaging its finish and potentially making it less effective. Stick to soft cloths or toothbrushes for scrubbing.
