Installation Guides - Use and Care

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Our copper sinks boast a dynamic, self-restoring patina that requires minimal maintenance. Simply give your sink a rinse after use, no need to dry. Over time, the patina evolves, revealing a captivating array of hues and designs. For effortless cleaning, use dish soap to eliminate grease and grime. Many new sink owners are astonished by the low-maintenance nature of our sinks, as there's nothing that can cause lasting damage to the interior.

Be aware that leaving metal pans in the sink may result in temporary dark marks on the copper. These blemishes naturally fade, but you can expedite the process by gently rubbing the affected area with a ScotchBrite pad. Fear not about scratches, as they swiftly become imperceptible.

Your sink will be accompanied by a petite bottle of copper conditioner. This solution is not a cleanser, but rather a polish that imparts a temporary protective layer to the copper, preserving the existing patina. Utilize this conditioner only when you're pleased with the current patina. If you're waiting for the patina to rejuvenate, refrain from using the spray, as it hinders the copper's natural patination process.

The aprons of our copper, brass, and bronze sinks are fortified with an incredibly resilient clear coat. However, it's important to note that no clear coat is immune to scratches. During the installation process, kindly ask your plumber and other workers to refrain from wearing tool belts and avoid using any type of tape on the apron's face.

After installation, simply cleanse the apron with a mild soap and water mixture as needed. The protective clear topcoat is applied exclusively to the vertical surface.

We also provide a copper conditioner with your sink. Primarily designed for use in the basin, it can be utilized to polish the apron as well. Rest assured, the conditioner will not damage the topcoat.

Fortuitously, our hand finished stainless sinks eliminate the need for bottom protection, unlike the majority of sink companies. This distinctive feature is attributed to our signature hand finishing, which greatly reduces the likelihood of conspicuous scratches. In the event of a scratch or scuff, effortlessly remove the mark and blend it with the original pattern using the ScotchBrite pad provided with your order. Our sinks necessitate no special cleaners; a simple soap and water solution will suffice.

Additionally, we offer a remarkable stainless cleaner and conditioner by Bayes, available under the accessory tab. This product not only helps prevent water spots but also, when applied to stainless appliances, deters fingerprinting for approximately a week. It is food-safe and a breeze to apply.

If you have an unlacquered brass or bronze sink without burnishing, you have two choices: If you want to keep the sink looking like it did when you received it, we suggest purchasing a quality brass cleaner. You will have to clean the sink frequently. If you want it to age naturally, have patience. It can take several months for the sink to "start" looking the way you might want it to look.

If your sink is burnished, see the copper sink care above. The brass and bronze will react similarly.

Easy care here for sure!

Simply wash your sink with soap and water. 

Millennia stainless is made of domestic 304L, which is a higher grade of stainless than typical 304. The "L" stands for low carbon. So, what does that do for you? Well, this type of stainless exhibits outstanding corrosion resistance. You are assured you will have a sink that will last generations. 

The embossed pattern in the stainless helps to hide scratches and water spots. It is quite a bit shinier than our hand finished stainless. It is NSA certified to be used in food preparation as it is very easy to clean. 

Linda sends an email to a new Rachiele copper sink owner...

 "Dino Rachiele forwarded an email you'd written regarding your new sink and asked if I would contact you. I purchased two copper sinks and have been using them daily since 2012.

I read your email and saw the picture that you'd sent Dino and wanted to share my thoughts. The first thing I thought when I saw the picture was that your sink looked brand new and hasn't had a chance to develop the patina that will come with use. When my sinks first arrived, like yours, they were a uniform color. When I first started using them, the very first marks (reactions to the copper) stood out in stark relief against that uniform color. They were very noticeable and you eye can't help but go right to them. You said in your email that you aren't even using the sink like you will be once you're cooking and entertaining. Once you start really using it, the sink will have a lovely, varied finish. You won't have that one mark that stands out like you do now.

The beauty of the sinks really comes out as you have lots and lots of marks that are made and then fade and change. You'll have layers of overlapping reactions that will create a gorgeous patina.

Best of luck and enjoy your new kitchen!

Linda"