Copper sinks are a beautiful accent to the kitchen. But they can get dirty quickly if not properly cared for. Whether raw copper or pre-treated copper, the care should be the same, protecting from the harsh chemical and clean after each use.
After a few days of use, the surface is prone to fingerprints and dirt. If you haven’t been cleaning your copper sinks thoroughly, those soap scum rings underneath them will creep up on you fast. But, you can easily clean them without ever using harsh chemicals.
To get at the rings underneath your sink and make it look as good as new again, what do you have to do? Nothing much. Just a few simple steps and get the shiny, cleaned, hammered copper sink.
This article will give you some helpful tips on how to clean a hammered copper sink and maintain its beauty.
5 Steps to Clean a Hammered Copper Sink
Copper sinks are super popular these days and are among the most popular choices for homeowners. The main reason is that copper is hardy and durable.
If you can clean it in the right way along with the right ingredients, it will last longer. To make the cleaning process simpler for you, here are some steps.
Step One:
As we told you, you need to regularly clean the hammered copper sink or any copper sink after each use. If you use it three times a day, you have to clean it three times a day.
After every use, rinse away the hammered copper sink well with warm water. Make sure no little dirt or food is remaining on the sink.
Step Two:
Using any harsh chemical like acid, bleach, drain cleaners or household cleaner, or toilet cleaner, everything is avoidable.
Only mild cleansers like dish liquid are usable. Make a solution of dish liquid (free of chemicals) and warm water in a bowl.
Dip the sponge or clean rag in the solution, wring to squeeze extra solution, and apply the solution all over the hammered copper sink by wiping away with the sponge.
Allow it to stay for five minutes, scrub with the sponge gently. Now rinse away with water repeatedly until the residue is cleaned.
Step Three:
After cleaning with dish liquid, wait for a little if there is any stain left. Every house has this common kitchen ingredient, baking soda.
It can help you get rid of stains from the hammered copper sink without harming it. Make a thick paste of baking soda and warm water.
Apply it on the stain and let it stay for 10-15 minutes. Now wipe away the baking soda residue with the help of a dampened rag.
If some stain is still there, repeat the process and scrub a little with a toothbrush.
Step Four:
After the hammered copper sink is free of dirt and stain, it’s time to give a final rinse with warm water. Ensure warm water reaches each corner of the sink, and every dirt and residue is cleaned.
Now use a lint-free cloth or paper towel and wipe away the sink to absorb extra moisture.
Step Five:
Then give another wipe with a lint-free cloth to dry the hammered sink. Remember you have to make the sink dry after every use.
And never leave dirty utensils or anything on the sink without or after cleaning. The hammered copper sink should be clean and dry every time. And for protection, you can place a dishwashing mat over the sink.
Cautions
- Avoid keeping items like dirty dishes, citrus juice, ketchup, tomato sauce, pickles, cosmetics, toothpaste or even cleaning tools on the sink for more than needed time to clean these.
- Keep away from using harsh polishes and waxing before six months.
- Avoid leaving the sink wet; wipe away with clothes to dry.
- stay away from using steel wool scrubbing pad, ammonia-based or acid-based commercial cleaner, or home ingredients like vinegar.
- If the water is hard water, make sure to pour hot water while rinsing with hard water.
FAQ
How Do You Restore a Hammered Copper Sink?
The most effective way to restore a hammered copper sink is by acid etching. This process is used on sinks that have been damaged by plumbing or dishwasher chemicals, high-pressure water, or freezing temperatures.
This process involves using an acid (usually hydrochloric) that etches the surface of the metal, removing any discoloration and restoring it to its original state.
How Do You Clean a Hammered Metal Sink?
To clean a hammered metal sink, use a wet cloth or sponge to remove any food particles that may be stuck.
If the item is still not coming off, you can use a mixture of baking soda and warm water. Apply the mixture with a scrubber and sit for 5 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
Are Hammered Copper Sinks Hard to Maintain?
No, hammered copper sinks are easy to maintain. All you need is a basic knowledge of copper and the use of a copper cleaner with the right concentration, and you can maintain your hammered copper sink easily.
Can You Clean a Copper Sink with Vinegar?
The answer to this question is: No, vinegar will not clean copper sinks.
Some ingredients can be used to clean copper, but they are not safe for use on your sink, so it would be best to consult with a professional before you attempt any cleaning methods.
Can I Use Bar Keepers Friend on My Copper Sink?
It is not recommended to use Bar Keepers Friend on copper sinks because it can cause damage to the surface.
Copper is a very soft metal, and when you use an abrasive cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend, it may cause scratches or pits on the surface of your sink.
Conclusion
Cleaning a hammered copper sink is simple when you know the secret. And the secret is in the right detergent and a sponge!
After that, you need to follow the steps fully given above and gently clean your sink. The polished finishes of hammered copper sinks will shine again if appropriately cleaned and thoroughly after every use.
Hope our guide on how to clean a hammered copper sink will help you.
Jessie Grisham is a writer, editor, and content strategist. She’s also a big fan of naps, coffee, and books. Jessie has been writing and editing for over 10 years, and has worked in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. When she’s not busy writing or editing, you can find her spending time with her husband and two young sons.
