How to clean a copper samovar
Regular, correct cleaning keeps a copper samovar looking good and makes it last longer. Think of three separate parts: the fire chamber and base (ash), the inside of the water tank (tin lining and limescale) and the outer copper surface.
After every use
- Once the samovar has cooled, empty the ash; ash combined with moisture stains copper. On models with a removable fire base this is very easy.
- Drain the remaining water through the tap and leave the lid open so the inside dries.
- Wash the body by hand with lukewarm water and a soft sponge and dry it straight away.
How to remove limescale from the tank
With hard water, limescale builds up inside the tank over time. Fill the tank with water and vinegar, leave it for a while, then rinse several times with plenty of clean water. The inside is tin-lined, so do not use steel wool, hard brushes or abrasive powders.
Outside: polished models
Copper naturally darkens in contact with air – this is not a defect. On polished models, wipe the outside with copper polish or a lemon-and-salt mix, rinse well and dry immediately. Use this mix only on the outside, never inside the tank.
Outside: antique and oxidised models
Antique and oxidised finishes have been darkened on purpose. Do not use polish, metal cleaner or lemon-and-salt on them; wipe with a soft, dry cloth only.
What not to do
- Putting it in the dishwasher
- Using bleach or harsh chemicals
- Scrubbing the inside with steel wool
- Storing the samovar wet or with ash inside
- Leaving an empty (waterless) samovar on the fire
Cleaning the teapot
Our copper samovar teapots are tin-lined inside too. Wash by hand, dry straight away and never put them on the heat empty.
How to clean an electric samovar
Before cleaning an electric samovar, unplug it and let it cool completely. The base, plug, cable and electrical parts must never be immersed in water or held under the tap.
- Limescale: fill the tank halfway with water and vinegar (or the descaler recommended by the manufacturer) and leave it; if the manual allows, heat briefly. Then empty it and rinse by filling and emptying with clean water several times.
- Do not scrape scale off the heating element with hard objects; soften it with the descaler and clean with a soft brush.
- Outside: copper care for copper bodies; a soft cloth and mild detergent for steel bodies. Avoid abrasives and steel wool.
- Make sure the base and plug area are completely dry before plugging it in again.
Frequently asked questions
How do I remove limescale from a samovar?
Fill the tank with water and vinegar, leave it for a while, then rinse with plenty of water. Do not use abrasives or steel wool.
How do I polish a copper samovar?
On polished models, wipe the outside with copper polish or lemon and salt, rinse and dry. Antique and oxidised finishes are not polished.
Can a samovar go in the dishwasher?
No. Copper samovars and teapots should be washed by hand with lukewarm water and a soft sponge.