Copper sinks: Use and Care - Frequently asked questions

That question is a loaded question with many answers. Technically, there are many items which will disturb the patina on a copper sink. Most foods are acidic and will eventually (if left for a period of time) remove the natural patina. No worries however... the patina will return on its own. The most common concern is regarding pots and pans. A pot or pan left in a copper sink may leave a dark ring in the bottom of the sink. This dark ring is caused by an acceleration of the patination process. The fix is simple. Just take a "ScotchBrite" pad and gently abrade the dark area until it lightens. Don't worry about making that area lighter than the surrounding area. The copper will naturally darken to match the surrounding area in little time.

2.  Will my copper sink dent easily?

That all depends on the thickness and the type of copper. The general consensus is to consider a copper sink with 16 gauge thickness. Thinner material may dent easily. The type of copper is more important. Annealed copper (which can be pure copper) is soft and can dent easily. Cold rolled copper is very hard and is very difficult to dent. This type of copper is so hard, only an intentional hit will damage the sink.

3.  Should I wax my sink?

Generally, you should not wax your sink on a regular basis. The wax will inhibit the natural antibacterial properties of the copper. However, a waxing once a month or so will help to protect the natural patina.

4.  Will bleach hurt my copper sink?

If the sink has no lacquer or wax on it, bleach will not hurt the copper. If you are not sure if your sink has a protective coating, do not use bleach. If there is a lacquer over the copper, the bleach can turn the lacquer a whitish color and can not be repaired.

5.  How can I tell where my sink was manufactured?

Ask the supplier to tell you where the sink is manufactured.

6.  Is copper safe to use as a kitchen sink?

Indeed! Copper is a natural antibacterial metal. It will require normal cleaning and removal of dirt and grime and must not have any coatings such as wax or lacquer which will eliminate the natural antimicrobial action of copper.  There should be little concern at all about preparing foods in or around a copper sink. Remember, most homes had copper pipes for drinking water. One of the (then unknown) benefits of having copper water pipes, is that the copper was killing bacteria.

7.  Does a copper sink scratch easily?

Well, copper will scratch, but the good news is that the scratch will not be noticeable in a few days. Any scratch will age quickly and become virtually invisible. Stainless steel scratches easily too, but the scratch will never be unnoticeable.

Questions about copper sinks? Ask the experts.