Copper Kitchen Sinks: Pros, Cons, and More

From being absolutely stunning to standing the test of time, there are many great reasons to consider installing a copper kitchen sink. But the truth is, there are almost as many downsides as upsides when it comes to this trendy kitchen sink. Use this guide to determine if a copper sink will truly be your dream come true or if it’s more of a pain than a blessing.

What Are Copper Kitchen Sinks? 

Much like sinks made from stainless steel or porcelain, copper kitchen sinks come in a wide variety of sizes and styles. They can also be installed in all the same ways as other types of sinks, whether you want a drop-in sink or an overmount or undermount kitchen sink. There’s a copper sink out there that will suit your needs, including aged or polished copper that fits into large or small spaces.

The Pros of Copper Kitchen Sinks

Copper sinks are both beloved for their beauty and longevity. Here are the benefits of a copper sink.

Unmatched in Style and Quality

Available in an array of different polished, matte, and rustic finishes, as well as plenty of exciting textures—including hand-hammered and smooth—copper sinks can add so much to the overall design of a kitchen. They can fit neatly into almost any type of space, from a cottagecore-inspired setup to a glamorous, modern kitchen design.

Extremely Long-Lasting

Despite popular belief, copper sinks aren’t all that finicky. With just a bit more care than you’re used to giving your sink, it can last a lifetime.  

Copper Is Naturally Antibacterial 

Though it may sound like a myth, copper does have antimicrobial properties. One study in Letters in Applied Microbiology found that the use of copper on surfaces in a public school significantly reduced the presence of staphylococcus aureus, the primary source of staph infections.

Cons of Copper Kitchen Sinks

Some drawbacks of copper kitchen sinks include their high price and tendency to develop patina, among other issues.

More Expensive Than Other Types of Sinks

Though the average cost to install a sink is $400 for materials and installation, you can expect to pay up to $2,000 for a copper sink, depending on the level of craftsmanship and customization involved in mounting it.  

Can Be Difficult to Maintain

If adding yet another chore to the pile will only make your workload heavier, then this may not be the kitchen sink for you. Copper sinks need extra care to look their best and avoid developing a patina (a green film) over time. 

The reason for this is that copper is a natural material that reacts to external stimuli, like acid from food and chemicals from cleaning agents. Even water can cause your copper sink to turn green after a while if it’s always wet. When in doubt, keep it away from anything highly acidic (like orange juice or coffee), dry it after each use, and use specialized copper cleaning agents when you do decide to deep clean your kitchen sink.

All that said, copper will change over time regardless of the care you or don’t give it. That doesn’t mean it will necessarily turn green, but it will develop additional layers of character after years of use. 

You Can’t Install a Copper Sink on Your Own

Installing a copper sink is a job that’s best left to a local sink installer. These sinks, especially farmhouse styles, are sometimes so heavy that it may be hazardous to attempt to install one yourself. Special skills and tools are required to ensure that this delicate material doesn’t incur any damage from extended use.

Is a Copper Sink Right For You?

A copper sink is a good choice for your kitchen if you want a unique, rustic-looking sink that will last for several years—and you have the budget for it. As mentioned, copper sinks are on the pricier side, so how much you’re willing to spend will influence whether a copper sink is your best option. 

Many homeowners find the antimicrobial properties of a copper sink and its beauty make it a worthwhile investment.