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Marsha asked: How do I restore the finish to a copper sink? Tilex was used to clean a bathroom copper sink. It left a definite stain on the finish. Can I restore the finish, or is it permanently damaged?
Tilex is a strong cleaning product and likely removed the protective coating or wax finish that was applied to the sink. What looks like a stain is actually the removal of the natural patinas that build up over time and give copper its look. Fortunately, with a little cleaning and time, the finish will darken and return to normal.
You Will Need:
- Commercial copper cleaner and polish
- Soft cloths
- Soap
- Water
- Sink wax
Steps to Clean and Polish Copper:
- Clean the sink with plain old soap and water.
- Use a soft cloth to scrub away any dirt.
- Once clean, apply a copper polish such as Brasso.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
- If no wax is on the surface of the sink, or if it has been removed, apply a wax sealant to the surface.
Additional Tips and Advice
- Olive oil is a natural product that can be used to buff copper sinks and really make them shine.
- Wipe out the sink daily to keep it clean and prevent water spots.
- To age and patina a sink, combine ¼ cup ammonia with a teaspoon of salt. Spread the mixture over the surface and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Wash with cold water and dry with a soft cloth. Repeat if desired.
How do I remove a hair color dye stain from a copper sink?
If you leave a wet rag laying on the sink and it appears the finish is eaten off, what do you do…
Someone left an empty metal cat food can in my copper sink, leaving a black ring. How can I remove this black ring?
Thanks.
Diane