Resources > Copper Sink Maintenance Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Copper Maintenance Instructions

Copper Facts

Purchasing a Copper Sink

Copper Maintenance Instructions:

Caring for our copper bowls is surprisingly easy and virtually maintenance free. A copper finish is a living finish and never really stops changing in color. That being said, the evolution of a copper finish is gradual, and as it ages it becomes even more handsome. You can greatly reduce this change with the use of wax (see below).

For basic cleaning simply use a mild soap and water – other cleaners are not necessary. Copper will naturally patina over time and develop a warm medium patina. Unless you want to maintain a shiny copper finish, do not use copper cleaners. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on any of our products – these can harm the surface.

Keep your basin and drain clean and dry by wiping it down periodically with a soft cloth. For extra protection, a product such as “Renaissance Wax” may be applied to the copper surface periodically. This will help maintain the luster and provide better water runoff. Enjoy the living qualities of your beautiful hand hammered sink - truly a unique and functional work of art!

Maintenance by finish:

Dark Smoke and Rio Grande Finishes: These darker finishes have gone through an “accelerated patina” process and will not change much more relative to the lighter finishes. Soap and water is generally all the cleaning you will need to do. Other colors can also come about depending on the environment the copper is exposed to. If an acidic product such as ketchup or lemon juice removes some of the patina, don’t worry. The patina will return over time.

Café Natural and Red October: These finishes will naturally darken and patina over time. If you want to maintain the look of these finishes, you can periodically wax the bowls with Renaissance Wax. You can purchase this wax from Copper Sinks Online (find it in the Accessories section). You can also choose to purchase your copper sink "pre-waxed" by us at the factory. This option includes a tin of wax as well (two sizes available).

Shiny Copper and Matte Shiny Copper: These finishes will require the most maintenance and are the only sinks that copper cleaners may be used to maintain their shiny appearance. Using a wax or a protective sealant will reduce the maintenance necessary to maintain the finish and delay the natural patina process.

Nickel Finish: These finishes are not like stainless steel and will gradually patina over time. Most common metal cleaners can be used to brighten the finish periodically. As with an unfinished copper, you can use a wax or protective sealant to reduce the maintenance required.

For further information, please refer to "FAQ’s".