Care Instructions for your handmade copper sink or bathtub
Congratulations on choosing a handmade copper item from Premier Copper Products. Copper is a beautiful and durable material that adds warmth and character to any space. With the right care, your copper fixture will age gracefully, developing a unique patina that enhances its beauty over time. Follow the care instructions below to ensure your copper sink or bathtub remains in top condition for years to come.
Daily Care
Rinse After Use
After each use, rinse your copper sink or bathtub with warm water to remove any soap, toothpaste, or other residues. This simple step prevents build-up and keeps your fixture looking its best.
Gentle Cleaning
For regular cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution. Apply it with a soft cloth or sponge, gently wiping down the surface. Avoid using abrasive pads or brushes, as they can scratch the copper. Copper is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, so harsh chemicals are not needed!
Drying
After rinsing and cleaning, dry the sink or bathtub with a soft towel. Drying prevents water spots and helps maintain the finish.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Refrain from using acidic or harsh chemical cleaners, as they can strip the patina. Common culprits include vinegar, lemon juice, and abrasive powders.
Quick Response to Spills
Immediately rinse and dry the surface if acidic substances (such as citrus juice, ketchup, or toothpaste) come into contact with the copper. Prolonged exposure to acids can cause discoloration or spots.
Enhancing Patina
If you love the look of aged copper and want to enhance the patina, here’s how:
Allow Natural Aging
Simply allow your copper sink or bathtub to age naturally. Over time, exposure to air and water will cause the copper to darken and develop a rich, varied patina.
Encourage Patina Development
You can accelerate the patina process by exposing the copper to elements like air and moisture.
Handling Stains and Spots
Removing Unwanted Spots
If you notice light spotting or stripped patina, we offer a quick solution using one of our Patina Repair Kits. Visit the product page for detailed information.
Long-Term Maintenance
Re-Waxing
Reapply wax periodically, especially if you notice the copper starting to lose its luster. This not only protects the copper but also gives it a polished, maintained appearance.
Inspection
Regularly inspect your copper sink or bathtub for any signs of wear or damage. Although copper is durable, checking for potential issues ensures any minor problems can be addressed before they become significant.
Things to Avoid
Abrasive Cleaners
Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing pads, as these can scratch and damage the copper surface.
Harsh Chemicals
Do not use bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals on your copper sink or bathtub. These substances can cause corrosion and damage the finish.
Leaving Items in the Sink or Bathtub
Avoid leaving wet sponges, cloths, or other items in the sink or bathtub for extended periods. These can cause water spots or unwanted discoloration.
Patina Refresh
In this video, we’ll show you how to refresh the natural patina on your copper surfaces by lightly sanding them to reveal a brighter, more polished finish. Watch step-by-step as we bring back the balance between rich patina and stunning copper shine, giving your home décor a refreshed yet timeless look.
Nickel Care & Cleaning Instructions
Add a short description for this section
Daily Care
To keep your nickel sink looking its best, simply adopt the “rinse and wipe” method. After each use, rinse the sink with water and wipe it dry with a soft cloth to prevent calcium stains from forming. These stains can alter the sink’s appearance, and food acids left on the surface can damage the finish. Regular cleaning helps maintain its finish and durability.
When Needed
Use water and a non-citrus liquid dish soap with a non-scratch sponge. Gently scrub the surface, rinse thoroughly, and wipe dry with a soft cloth. For extra protection and to enhance the finish, apply Premier Copper Surface Protectant Bees Wax Spray (Model Number: W900-WAX). Spray it on the surface and wipe it off with a soft cloth to shield your sink from food-related acids and maintain the finish.
Cleaning Products
All cleaning products that contain abrasives, ammonia, bleach, and alcohol will strip the nickel finish. Harsh chemicals will damage the finish.
Important Information
Remember this is a plated finish. It is not a solid nickel sink through and through. This is a Copper sink expertly plated with a Nickel finish. Any use of abrasive cleaners/sponges and chemical cleaners will result in removing the nickel finish and exposing the copper. Always remember to rinse with water and wipe with a soft cloth.
Additional Care tips
Always avoid using anything abrasive that may remove the finish Following this simple routine of ‘rinse and wipe’, your nickel plated product will give you a lifetime of enjoyment! When working with acidic foods such as lemons, tomatoes, mustard, pineapple, citrus fruit, vinegar, etc., it is best to leave water running while working with products and foods of this nature and remember to thoroughly rinse your sink immediately after use. For an added layer of protection, especially in ‘hard water’ areas, consider coating your sink or tub with a high quality wax. We recommend “Premier Copper Products Surface Wax (Model Number: W900-WAX)”. This will help maintain the luster while providing better water runoff.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the care of your copper sink or need additional information, we’re here to help! Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Simply fill out the form below, and one of our team members will get back to you within two business days.