Looking For Unsealed Copper? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Copper mugs are iconic - timeless, beautiful, and deeply rooted in tradition. But one of the most common questions we hear is:

“What if I want the benefits of drinking directly from copper?”

The short answer: you can - and we’re happy to make that happen. Here’s exactly how it works, what to consider, and why our mugs are made the way they are.

Why Our Copper Mugs Are Sealed

Every copper mug we make goes through an extensive process of brushing, polishing, and finishing by hand. Copper is a living metal, which means it begins to tarnish almost immediately when exposed to air, moisture, and use.

To protect that craftsmanship, we seal our mugs with a food-safe interior coating.

This seal serves two important purposes:

• Preserves the finish so your mug stays brilliant and beautiful for years

• Creates consistency and longevity, especially for gifting and everyday use
  

In short, the sealer helps ensure your mug looks just as good years from now as the day you received it.

What About the Benefits of Drinking From Copper?

Many people seek out copper vessels for their natural properties, often associated with traditional wellness practices. Historically, copper vessels were commonly used for drinking water, particularly in Ayurvedic traditions, where water stored in copper was believed to support balance and wellness.

If your preference is to have your beverage come into direct contact with raw copper, we completely understand.

That’s why we offer an option to receive your mugs unsealed on the interior.

How to Request an Unsealed Copper Mug

If you’d like to drink directly from copper:

• Your mug will be fully brushed and polished on the interior, just like every other mug we make

• We simply skip the final food-grade sealing step

• The mug is shipped to you before it’s dipped and sealed
  

All you need to do is request unsealed interiors in the notes section at checkout, and we’ll take care of the rest.

How to Request an Unsealed Copper Mug

The same customization options apply to our copper straws.

If you’re interested in drinking directly from copper through a straw, you can request:

• A completely unsealed copper straw, where the interior and exterior are left raw for full copper contact

• A partially sealed copper straw, where the interior remains unsealed for direct copper contact, while the exterior is sealed to help preserve the finish and extend the lifespan of the straw
  

Sealing the exterior of the straw helps reduce tarnishing from handling and moisture, while still allowing the interior to remain raw if that is your preference.

As with mugs, raw copper straws are best suited for water, not acidic or alcoholic beverages. If you plan to use your straw regularly with citrus or cocktails, we recommend opting for a sealed interior instead.

To request an unsealed or partially sealed copper straw, simply leave a note at checkout or reach out to us directly, and we’ll make sure it’s finished to match how you plan to use it.

An Important Note on Raw Copper, Citrus, and Alcohol

This part matters.

While raw copper has traditionally been used for water, it is not recommended for acidic or alcoholic beverages, including cocktails like Moscow Mules.

Here’s why:

• Copper is reactive, especially when it comes into contact with acidic liquids

• Citrus juices like lime or lemon, as well as alcohol, can react with raw copper

• This reaction can cause copper to leach into the beverage at higher levels than intended
  

Because of this, drinking citrus-based or alcoholic drinks from raw, unlined copper is generally discouraged. This is why many modern copper mugs are sealed or lined - especially when they are designed for cocktails.

If you are considering drinking directly from raw copper, it’s strongly recommended that you:

• Use it primarily for water, not cocktails or alcohol

• Avoid citrus, vinegar, wine, or highly acidic beverages

• Consult your physician or healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions
  

Certain individuals may be more sensitive to copper intake, and a medical professional can help determine what’s appropriate for you.

A Note on Copper Care

Because unsealed copper is more reactive, it will naturally patina and tarnish over time. This is expected and part of owning raw copper.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are recommended if you choose this option.

Sealed or unsealed, every mug that leaves our shop is made with the same level of care, craftsmanship, and intention.

Choosing What’s Right for You

Whether you prefer:

• A sealed copper mug that stays polished and gift-ready, or

• An unsealed copper interior for direct copper contact with water
  

We believe the best choice is the one that fits how you plan to use your mug.

If you have questions or want help deciding, we’re always happy to guide you.

Cheers to intentional choices and well-used mugs!