1. What is patina, and why does it matter?
Think of patina as copper’s natural superpower. It’s a “living finish” that develops over time, creating a protective layer that’s as rich and unique as your sink’s story. The more your sink interacts with its environment—water, air, and yes, even that accidental splash of ketchup—the more its character shines through. It’s not about being flawless; it’s about embracing the perfectly imperfect beauty of a sink that ages gracefully.

2. How do I clean my copper sink?
Cleaning your copper sink is simpler than you think—no fancy chemistry degree required. Just stick with a soft sponge or cloth, warm water, and a gentle dish soap. Skip the harsh abrasives like steel wool or bleach; those can strip away the patina faster than you can say “oops.” Sinkologist® tip: Dry your sink after each use and apply a few sprays of our Care IQ Defend to keep water spots at bay and maintain its natural luster.

3. Will my copper sink turn green?
Only if it decides to live its best Statue of Liberty life outdoors! In your home, copper sinks typically develop a warm, brown patina instead of that iconic green. But if you’re after a specific look (or want to avoid one), our Copper Care IQ Kit can help. Sinkologist® tip: If you notice green build-up (oxidation), don’t panic! This is a natural reaction. Use your Breeze Scrubber or even your fingernail to gently remove it before cleaning the area.

4. Can I stop the patina from changing?
You can’t hit pause on life, and the same goes for your sink’s patina. But if you’d like to slow things down or maintain a specific look, you can use our Copper Care IQ Kit. It’s like extra credit for your sink—adding protection while letting its natural charm shine through.

5. What happens if my sink gets scratched?
Scratches are part of copper’s charm and blend into the patina over time, making them less noticeable. It’s like the sink equivalent of laugh lines—they tell a story. If a scratch really bothers you, gently buff it with a soft cloth, and let the magic of patina work its way back in.

6. Can I use my copper sink for everyday tasks?
Absolutely! Copper sinks aren’t just pretty—they’re workhorses. From meal prep to bath time, they’re ready to tackle whatever you throw at them. Just remember to show them a little love with regular cleaning, and they’ll stay stunning for years to come.

7. How do I protect my sink from hard water spots?
Hard water happens, but it doesn’t have to rain on your copper sink’s parade. Regularly cleaning and drying your sink helps, but for extra protection, our Copper Care IQ Kit is your go-to. It’s like a wax job for your sink, making water bead up and roll away instead of sticking around to cause spots.

8. Is my copper sink really antimicrobial?
Yes! Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that help keep bacteria at bay. It’s like your sink has a built-in cleaning assistant—just don’t forget to do your part by giving it a quick wash regularly.

9. What’s the deal with Sinkology’s Everyday Promise Lifetime Warranty?
We stand by our sinks for life. The Everyday Promise is our way of saying, “We’ve got you covered.” Whether it’s a question about care or something more, we’re here to make sure you love your sink as much on day 1,000 as you did on day 1.

10. What are the different finishes available for copper sinks?
Copper sinks come in various finishes, including:

• Aged: A warm, vibrant finish achieved through an exclusive aging process, ensuring durability and a consistent appearance.
• Antique: A medium to light tone designed to reflect long-term care and use, with a hand-applied finish for a classic look.
• Naked: Raw and natural copper without a finish, allowing it to age and patina naturally with minimal upkeep or be kept shiny and polished with regular maintenance.
• Verde: The verde copper finish is our most rare and exclusive. This finish was painstakingly mastered by our Sinkologists to bring old world beauty to your home. It is usually applied with a naked copper interior.

11. What gauge should I look for in a copper sink?
Gauge refers to the thickness of the copper used in the sink. At Sinkology, copper sinks range from 14 to 18 gauge, striking a balance between strength, durability, weight, function, and design. A lower gauge number indicates thicker copper, which is generally more durable and resistant to dents.

12. How pure is the copper used in Sinkology sinks?
Sinkology sinks are made from 99.98% pure solid copper. This high level of purity ensures durability and quality. It’s important to avoid sinks with filler materials or lead content. While some companies offer recycled copper options, Sinkology uses non-recycled copper to maintain strict control over purity, though the sinks are 100% recyclable.

13. Are copper sinks compatible with garbage disposals?
Our disposal flanges are most compatible with InSinkErator® garbage disposals. Modification kits are available for our drains to work with other brand garbage disposals.

14. How do I choose a faucet finish that complements my copper sink?
While copper faucets are uncommon, finishes like brass, bronze, or black can complement a copper sink. We offer several tuscan or rustic bronze faucets through our partnership with Pfister® faucets. These faucets complement each of our copper sinks and are available to purchase with our All-In-One Kits.

15. Do copper sinks only come in a farmhouse style?
No, copper sinks come in a variety of styles, including undermount, drop-in, vessel, and farmhouse designs, making them suitable for both kitchens and bathrooms.

16. Can I install a copper sink myself?
Yes, with the right tools and preparation, many homeowners can install a copper sink. For undermount or farmhouse-style sinks, professional installation may be recommended to ensure proper support and sealing.

17. Are copper sinks noisy?
Copper sinks are quieter than stainless steel because of their density. Sinkology copper kitchen sinks also include sound dampening pad for additional noise reduction. We also recommend use of a sink bottom grid or mat for any metal sink.

18. How long do copper sinks last?
With proper care, copper sinks can last a lifetime. The natural patina actually strengthens and protects the metal, making it a durable and sustainable choice for your home.

19. Do copper sinks require a lot of maintenance?
Not at all! Copper sinks are surprisingly low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with warm water, gentle dish soap, and a soft sponge is all you need to keep them looking great. Applying Sinkology Copper Care IQ Defend will help preserve the patina and protect the surface.

20. What should you avoid putting on a copper sink?
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, abrasive scrubbers, and acidic substances like citrus, vinegar, or ketchup left for long periods. These can strip the patina or cause temporary discoloration. Stick to gentle cleaners and rinse promptly after use.

21. Do copper sinks turn black?
Well, not exactly black, but copper sinks can darken over time as part of the natural patina process. This isn’t a flaw—it’s part of the sink’s evolving beauty. The rich, dark tones that develop are a hallmark of copper’s unique charm.

22. Can you use bleach on a copper sink?
No, bleach is too harsh for copper sinks and can strip the patina. For cleaning, stick to gentle dish soap and water. If you need a deeper clean, consider using products specifically recommended for copper, like Sinkology’s Copper Care IQ Kit.

23. Can you use Bar Keepers Friend on a copper sink?
Yes, but please follow the directions provided on the packaging of Bar Keepers Friend, as it can potentially strip away the patina and cause an unwanted result.

24. Do copper sinks smell?
No way! Copper doesn’t retain odors. In fact, its natural antimicrobial properties make it a hygienic choice, helping to keep bacteria and smells at bay.

25. Are copper sinks out of style?
Absolutely not! Copper sinks are timeless and versatile, fitting into a wide range of design styles—from rustic farmhouse to modern luxury. Their unique patina ensures they never go out of fashion.

26. Can you use CLR on a copper sink?
No, CLR is not recommended for copper sinks. It’s too harsh and can damage the patina. Stick with gentle cleaning products designed for copper care.

27. How can you make a copper sink look new?
While your copper sink will never look exactly as it did on installation day, you can refresh its appearance by cleaning it thoroughly with warm water and dish soap, followed by applying Sinkology Copper Care IQ Defend. The patina will continue to evolve, creating a rich and unique finish over time.

28. What are 3 downsides of copper sinks?

• Patina Changes: The evolving finish might not appeal to everyone.
• Soft Surface: Copper is more prone to scratches and dents compared to harder materials.
• Maintenance Needs: While easy to care for, copper sinks require regular cleaning to prevent discoloration and maintain their beauty.