Copper sinks are known for their beauty and durability. However, without proper cleaning, they can quickly lose their luster. They require regular maintenance to prevent common issues like tarnishing and staining, which result from the natural oxidation process of copper. Discover our tips and tricks for keeping your copper sink spotless and free from staining and oxidation.
What You’ll Need
- Mild dish soap
- Non-abrasive sponge or dish cloth
- Microfiber cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
Steps to Clean Your Copper Sink
1. Spread about 2 spoonful of baking soda on the sink drain
The baking soda + vinegar routine is great to do once a week or once every two weeks, depending on how much gunk and grease your sink is taking in weekly.
Spread 2 spoonful of baking soda on top of the sink drain or into the sink drain and around the strainer body where grime builds up. The baking soda helps break apart fat solubles and grime.
After letting it sit for 10 min or so, pour in half a cup of white vinegar to help clean your drains. Once the chemical reaction subsides, you can pour another half cup of white vinegar.
2. Rinse the sink with warm water and remove lose debris.
Next, rinse the sink with warm water and try your best to remove loose debris. This step helps avoid scratching your sink later on.
3. Apply a small amount of dish soap to a non-abrasive sponge.
Apply a small amount of Puracy Natural Dish Soap to a wet, non-abrasive sponge. Gently squeeze the sponge to create a soapy lather.
4. Gently scrub the entire copper sink
Gently scrub the entire surface of the sink with the soapy sponge. Scrub all areas, with special focus on the edges and corners, where grime can build up. Use circular motions to ensure thorough cleaning without scratching the surface.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
After scrubbing, rinse the sink thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residue. Soap residue left on the sink can lead to spots and streaks once it dries.
6. Dry the copper sink with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Use a microfiber cloth to dry the sink completely. Drying the sink is a crucial step to prevent water spots and mineral deposits, which can dull the shine of the copper over time.
Proper Care and Maintenance Tips
Here are the best practices for daily care and long-term maintenance:
Prevent food and dish build up
Avoid leaving dirty dishes or food debris in the sink for extended periods. Clean any residues promptly to prevent discoloration and staining. Acidic substances like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can strip the patina if left in contact with the sink for too long. Rinse the sink immediately after exposure to these substances to maintain its finish
Clean your copper sink after each use and dry it thoroughly.
Rinse your copper sink with warm water and a gentle dish soap at the end of the day after your last dishwashing routine. Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth to avoid producing water stains.
Treat stubborn stains when you see them
If you don’t clean up on a daily basis, you might find yourself with stubborn stains. When you do, you can use the baking soda paste as a cleaner to treat the area.
Apply protective wax periodically
To maintain the shine and protect your sink from stains, apply a copper wax once a month to help prevent water spots.
Avoid storing chemicals that may evaporate in your sink cabinet
Do not store chemicals like bleach or acids that may emit vapors under the sink. The vapors can affect the sink quality from underneath due to corrosion.
Some tarnishing and scratches are OK
Even when you’ve done the daily work, sometimes you’ll see tarnishing and scratches that you just couldn’t fix. And that’s okay. One of the advantages of copper sinks is their finish, which changes over time and adds character to the overall appearance.
FAQs
How often should I clean my copper sink?
Clean your copper sink daily to maintain its appearance and prevent tarnishing.
When should I deep clean my copper sink?
Deep clean your sink monthly or whenever you notice stubborn stains.
How can I prevent water spots?
Always dry your sink with a microfiber cloth after each use. A preventive maintenance tip is to apply protective wax for copper once a month.
