We Asked Pros How to Clean a Copper Sink the Right Way—And It's So Simple

Key Points

To clean copper, wipe it down daily using a degreasing dish soap and a soft sponge.
Polishing copper isn’t necessary. If you do want to restore its shine, you can use a copper cream polish.
Avoid using any abrasive or highly acidic products on a copper sink.

Copper sinks are show stoppers in any kitchen or bath. This unique alternative to stainless steel is surprisingly low-maintenance, especially if you’re willing to embrace its natural patina.

A copper sink needs routine cleaning just like any other sink, and you shouldn’t let a fear of ruining its finish get in the way of the chore. We asked two copper care experts the best way to keep a copper sink clean, and the good news is that it barely requires any effort.

How to Clean a Copper Sink

Shined or patinaed, copper is naturally antimicrobial. But that doesn’t mean it’s immune to grease and food debris buildup. Dino Rachiele produces copper sinks for a living, and according to him, the best way to clean a copper sink is using dish soap.

Remove all dishes and large food debris from the sink. Rinse off smaller particles with a spray nozzle.
Apply a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap throughout the copper sink basin.
Using a soft, wet sponge, wipe down the sink in a circular motion. Don’t forget to scrub the sides of the sink as well.
Rinse off the soap with the spray nozzle.
Optional: Wipe it dry to prevent water spots.

This gentle cleaning method is a great daily ritual for keeping a copper sink clean without removing its natural patina.

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Warning

Copper is a soft metal, so avoid using abrasive and strong acidic products to clean your copper sink.

Polishing a Copper Sink

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Polishing a copper sink is entirely optional.

“I’ve seen countless misunderstandings around copper care, especially when people assume that a ‘shiny penny’ look equals cleanliness,” Rachiele says. “In reality, that’s not the case. There’s no hygienic benefit to polishing—only aesthetics.”

If you do prefer the look of a shiny copper sink over dark patina, Rachiele recommends using a copper cleaner and polisher.

Connor Epstein, who works as a research and development chemist, suggests always wearing gloves and testing it on a small, hidden area first to ensure it won’t harm your copper sink’s finish. Then, apply the polish gently with a soft cloth using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry the sink with a soft towel.

Care for Finishes

Most copper sinks on the market today use an applied, unnatural finish to give the appearance of patina. “Manufacturers will often warn you to never use abrasives and to dry the sink after every use. I strongly recommend you follow those warnings if your sink has one of these coatings,” Rachiele says. “Attempting to polish or clean it aggressively can open a can of worms that’s very difficult—if not impossible—to close.”

Daily Cleaning Tips to Keep Copper Looking Its Best

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There are some extra steps you can take to keep your sink looking great between light cleanings and polishes. Here’s what Rachiele and Epstein recommend.

Rinse it after every use.
Don’t let dishes or other items sit on it.
Dry your sink after use with a soft towel to prevent water spots and mineral buildup, especially if you have hard water.

How to Protect a Copper Sink From Stains and Damage

In terms of metal, copper is one of the softer varieties. This means you’ll need to take a few precautions to keep it in good shape, according to both experts. Here are a few tips.

Wipe up acidic spills immediately.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, and over-polishing.
Apply a thin layer of beeswax or copper wax every few weeks to protect the finish and slow down the patina process.

FAQ

Vinegar is acidic, so it’s generally not recommended for cleaning a copper sink. Prolonged or frequent exposure to acid can dull a copper sink’s finish.

A copper sink naturally turns green or dark. This coating is a patina that forms as copper oxidizes. Sulfur, ammonia, and organic matter in the air cause copper to look tarnished or develop a bluish green coating.