If you’ve found an old copper-bottomed pot at a yard sale or inherited one from your grandmother, you might be wondering: is Revere Ware cookware still made today? The answer is a bit of a journey, but I’m here to walk you through it all. Let’s look at what happened to this classic American brand and where you can find it now.
The story of Revere Ware is a true piece of kitchen history. Paul Revere, the famous silversmith, started the company back in the late 1920s. They became a household name with their durable stainless steel pots and that iconic copper-clad bottom. For decades, it was the reliable workhorse in family kitchens everywhere.
Is Revere Ware Cookware Still Made
So, is Revere Ware cookware still made? The short answer is yes, but not in the same way or place as it once was. The original Revere Ware company that made those beloved pots in Clinton, Illinois, closed its doors in the late 1990s. The brand name and designs were sold.
Today, the Revere Ware name is owned by a company called Corelle Brands. You might know them for their durable dinnerware. They license the name to other manufacturers who produce new lines of cookware under the Revere Ware brand. This means new pieces are being made, but they are different from the vintage ones you remember.
The Big Shift: From USA to Overseas Production
This is the most important change to understand. The classic, heirloom-quality Revere Ware was made in the United States. After the original factory closed, production moved overseas.
Most new Revere Ware you find in stores today is manufactured in China. The materials and construction methods have also changed. For example, many new pieces use aluminum-clad bottoms instead of the thick copper sandwich. They are more affordable, but often not as heavy-duty as the old versions.
Spotting Vintage vs. New Revere Ware
How can you tell what you have? Here’s a quick guide:
Check the bottom of the pot or pan. Vintage pieces will clearly say “Revere Ware” and “Stainless Steel” and often “Made in USA.” They have a solid, heavy feel. The copper bottom is a thick layer bonded to the stainless steel.
Newer pieces might say “Revere” or “Revere Ware” but will likely have “Made in China.” They are generally lighter. The bottoms may be a thinner copper-colored coating or aluminum. The handles might be a different design or material.
Why People Still Love the Old Stuff
There’s a huge market for vintage Revere Ware. Here’s why so many of us hunt for it at thrift stores:
* Durability: Those old pots were built to last a lifetime. With a little care, they can look and work like new.
* Even Heating: The copper-clad bottom distributed heat beautifully, preventing hot spots.
* Easy to Clean: The stainless steel interiors are non-reactive and simple to scrub.
* Sentimental Value: For many, these pots are a connection to family and a simpler time.
If you have vintage Revere Ware, it’s absolutely worth holding onto and restoring. A little bit of Bar Keeper’s Friend can make the stainless shine and the copper bottoms glow again.
What About the New Revere Ware Products?
The cookware sold under the Revere name today is considered a decent, budget-friendly option. It’s widely available at big-box stores and online retailers. It’s a good starter set for a new cook or for a college apartment.
However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. It won’t have the same heft or longevity as the vintage American-made pieces. Think of it as a separate product line that carries a historic name.
Caring for Your Revere Ware, Old or New
Proper care will make any cookware last longer. Here are my best tips:
1. For Stainless Steel Interiors: Use a non-abrasive cleaner. For stuck-on food, let the pan soak in warm, soapy water. A paste of baking soda and water can help with tough stains.
2. For Copper Bottoms (Vintage): To restore the shine, use a dedicated copper cleaner or a mix of lemon juice and salt. Remember, it’s normal for copper to tarnish with use; it doesn’t effect the cooking performance.
3. Avoid Extreme Heat: Don’t preheat an empty stainless steel pan on high heat. This can cause discoloration (rainbowing) and even warping, especially on thinner new pans.
4. Handwashing is Best: While some is labeled dishwasher safe, handwashing is gentler and preserves the finish longer. It also prevents water spots.
Where to Find Revere Ware Today
Looking to buy? You have two main paths:
For Vintage Revere Ware:
* Thrift Stores & Estate Sales: This is where you’ll find the best deals on classic pieces.
* Online Marketplaces: eBay and Facebook Marketplace are full of listings. You can often find complete sets.
* Antique Shops: Prices might be higher, but you can usually inspect the item in person.
For New Revere Ware:
* Major Retailers: Walmart, Target, and Amazon carry the current product lines.
* The Corelle Brands Website: They sometimes have official listings and sets available.
Is It Worth Buying New Revere Ware?
This depends entirely on your needs. If you want an inexpensive, functional set that gets the job done, the new Revere Ware is a fine choice. It’s a step above the very cheapest cookware.
But if you are looking for heirloom-quality, buy-it-for-life cookware, you are better off searching for vintage USA-made pieces or investing in a modern high-end brand. The new stuff simply isn’t the same product your grandmother used.
Restoring a Found Vintage Piece
Found a dirty, tarnished pot? Don’t despair! With some elbow grease, you can bring it back to life. Here’s a simple process:
1. Wash the pot thoroughly with hot, soapy water to remove any grease or loose grime.
2. For the copper bottom, apply a copper cleaner following the product instructions. For a natural option, sprinkle salt on a halved lemon and scrub.
3. For the stainless steel interior, make a paste with Bar Keeper’s Friend and water. Gently scrub in circular motions, then rinse well.
4. Dry everything completely with a soft towel to prevent water spots.
You’ll be amazed at the transformation. It’s incredibly satisfying to rescue a piece that still has decades of use left in it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Revere Ware still make copper bottom pots?
Yes, but the copper bottom on new Revere Ware is usually a thin cladding or even just a copper-colored coating. It’s not the same thick, bonded copper found on vintage USA-made pieces.
When did they stop making Revere Ware in the USA?
The original Revere Ware factory in Clinton, Illinois stopped production and closed in the late 1990s. Some limited production of specialty items may have continued briefly elsewhere, but mainstream USA manufacturing ended then.
Is old Revere Ware safe to use?
Absolutely! As long as it’s in good condition—no deep cracks or holes—vintage Revere Ware is perfectly safe. The materials (stainless steel and copper) are inert and stable. Just give it a good cleaning before its first use.
What is the best way to clean Revere Ware copper bottoms?
A dedicated copper cleaner works fastest. For a home remedy, use a paste of lemon juice and salt or vinegar and salt. Rinse well and dry thorougly after cleaning.
Can you use Revere Ware on an induction cooktop?
Vintage copper-bottom Revere Ware will not work on induction, as copper is not magnetic. Some new Revere Ware lines have induction-compatible bases, so you must check the packaging for that specific symbol.
Why is my vintage Revere Ware turning rainbow colors?
That rainbow discoloration on the stainless steel is called “heat tint.” It happens when the pan is overheated. It’s purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect cooking or safety. You can remove it with a stainless steel cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend.
In the end, Revere Ware holds a special place in the kitchen. While the manufacturing has changed, the legacy lives on. Your best bet for that classic quality is to seek out and cherish the vintage American-made pieces. They are a testament to a time when cookware was made to endure. And if you buy a new set, you’ll know the history behind the name on the box.