Integrating a beautiful copper sink into your kitchen will definitely add a touch of class to your interior with its standout colour. However, over time that copper shine may start to fade and discolour. But fear not, this is no disaster and is a fixable issue. In fact, it’s actually normal for the copper colour to change naturally over time.

Here, we will explore how to fix copper sink discolouration and how to restore the sink to its original shine.

Reasons For Copper Sink Discolouration

Copper is a naturally occurring metal, and with this comes all of the properties of a natural metal, including discolouration. When we use copper sinks regularly, they will begin to change their colour due to a natural oxidation process called ‘patination’. This forms a thin protective coating called patina over the natural surface of the copper sink while being exposed to air and moisture, which gives copper its distinguishing colour and prevents corrosion.

When you unbox a new copper sink, it will have a shiny reddish-brown finish, and over time, the sink forms a patina leading to a dark brown hue. Later, while overexposed to the surrounding atmosphere, the sink changes to a greenish patina. Don’t panic over the ever-changing characteristics of your copper sink, it is evolving, and this change is inevitable. Natural discolouration of copper sinks does not indicate that your sink is damaged unless it hasn’t been cared for properly.

How to Restore Copper Sink Patina?

Certain unhealthy practices could ruin the copper very quickly. Since copper is a reactive metal, it will undergo chemical reactions when it comes into contact with harsh chemicals. You just need some time and patience to restore the patina when it becomes uneven, tarnished, or discoloured.

Our expert panel suggests a couple of tricks for your copper sink. However, you can retain the copper finish and prevent spotting by following these tips:

• Wash your copper sink after each use or at least once daily to keep your sink looking shiny.
• Don’t let acidic materials like toothpaste, lemon, pickles, or ketchup in the sink for a long time. Thoroughly wash with hot water after them.
• Avoid using chlorine, bleach and other products that contain bleach as an ingredient.
• Don’t use drain unblockers and other products that contain harsh chemicals.
• Prevent leaving oily or greasy types of food or dirty dishes in the kitchen sink.
• Avoid keeping residue from shaving cream, cosmetics, or other personal care products in the bathroom sink.
• Don’t use abrasive scrubbing pads, brushes, or cleaners including washing powders and cream cleansers.

How to Clean a Copper Sink?

Firstly, you need to rinse the sink with hot or warm water to remove the remaining particles from the sink’s surface. Then use a mild dish soap and a non-scratchy sponge (or you may use a microfiber cloth) to wipe the entire sink including the rim. This will help to remove the bright or green spots and blend the natural patina of your copper sink. Scrub hard in the problematic areas making sure that the patina is not completely taken off.

Again, rinse away the soapy residue using hot or warm water as you did before. Then use cotton or microfiber cloth to dry the sink. Regular cleaning will prevent dirt buildup or other substances that can accelerate discolouration.

Does Verdigris Patina Protect Copper Sink?

Verdigris patina is a green-blue layer on the surface of the copper sink. This greenish patina is caused by a chemical reaction with carbon and sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere. These green patina forms in the sink over the years and this is a bonus for the sink over the years.

Verdigris patina protects copper against decomposition and the sink will last for many years. It also gives a unique finish to the sink by adding an antique traditional style to it. The verdigris patina is very easy to care for, and you can simply wipe it down with a mild soap and soft cloth.

Our Best-Selling Copper Sinks

Caple Mode 1.5 Bowl Copper Kitchen Sink

A beautiful copper sink for your kitchen with inset and undermount installation choices. It’s a large and functional 1.5 bowl sink with a right-handed small bowl. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly with supreme quality copper suitable for 600mm cabinets. Waste and overflow come included.

Caple Mode Copper Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

The elegant Caple Mode copper sink will give your kitchen a unique and stylish look. It’s a large and deep single bowl sink with inset or undermount installation options. It is of superior quality with a durable finish suitable for 500mm cabinets. Waste and overflow come included.

Franke Mythos Masterpiece Single Bowl Undermount Copper Kitchen Sink

The most functional yet eye-catching kitchen sink for your home with a copper finish from the Franke Mythos range. It’s a large and deep single bowl kitchen sink made with supreme quality stainless steel with a copper finish. Additionally, it is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant, and is very easy to clean. Best suitable for 450mm cabinets.