Our Guide to Buying & Using Copper Sinks and Basins
Our Upcycled French Copper Basins & Sinks
Our copper basins and sinks are thoughtfully upcycled from original French copper jam pans and cooking pots, giving each piece a second life as a functional and beautiful statement for the home. These authentic copper vessels are transformed into unique sinks and basins, while preserving their original character and charm.
Each basin is polished and quality tested to ensure it is fully watertight, and is supplied with a UK standard-size pop-up basin waste, finished with either a brass or chrome top to suit your interior style.
A key part of their appeal lies in their history. As genuinely upcycled pieces, some basins may show small dents, light scratches, or surface marks from their previous life. These are not defects, but honest signs of age and use that add to the authenticity, individuality, and story of each piece. No two basins are ever exactly the same, making every one truly unique
But Why Choose a Copper Sink or Basin?
Copper is also naturally antibacterial, making it a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms alike. Its inherent resistance to bacteria has been recognised for generations, long before modern manufacturing methods existed.
✨From a design perspective, copper sinks and basins offer exceptional versatility. They sit beautifully in rustic farmhouse interiors, French country homes, period properties, and even contemporary spaces where contrast and texture are key. Whether paired with a set of our Copper or Brass Taps, natural stone, or reclaimed wood, copper adds instant warmth and depth.
✨Durability is another important consideration. Quality copper basins are robust and long-lasting, designed to withstand daily use while remaining structurally sound for decades. Small marks and surface variations are not flaws, but part of their authentic appeal.
✨For those who value craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless design, a copper sink or basin is an investment piece — practical, beautiful, and uniquely personal.
Care & Maintenance of Copper Sinks and Basins
Copper sinks and basins are wonderfully low maintenance and are designed to age gracefully over time. Rather than requiring constant upkeep, copper develops a natural patina that enhances its character and charm.
🧼Everyday Cleaning
For daily care, simply rinse your copper sink or basin with warm water and wipe it dry using a soft cloth. This helps prevent water marks and maintains an even surface appearance. Mild washing-up liquid may be used if needed, but harsh cleaners are unnecessary.
âš¡What to Avoid
To protect the surface, avoid abrasive sponges, scouring pads, bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, or harsh chemical products. These can damage the copper and interfere with the natural patination process. Acidic substances such as vinegar or lemon juice should also not be left on the surface for prolonged periods.
🥰Embracing the Patina
Copper is a living material, meaning its colour will naturally deepen and change with use. This evolving patina is a sought-after feature and should be embraced as part of the sink’s authentic appeal. Variations in tone, gentle marks, and surface changes are normal and add to the uniqueness of each piece.
🧽Optional Polishing
If a brighter copper finish is preferred, copper-safe polishes may be used occasionally. Polishing will lighten the surface, but regular use is not required and will slow the natural ageing process. Many customers choose to allow their basin to age naturally for a richer, more traditional look. We use Brasso wadding to polish our copper. Apply the polish, leave to dry for a couple or minutes and buff off with a yellow duster.
🧽Long-Term Care
With simple, gentle care, a copper sink or basin will last for decades. Over time it becomes not only a functional feature, but a well-loved centrepiece that continues to gain character and beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
🙋Do you apply lacquer to your basins and sinks?
No, we do not lacquer the basins and sinks we sell. We have found that, in general, customers prefer to allow the copper to wear to its natural patina. Lacquer prevents this and can in the long run means more extensive cleaning.
🙋Do you post these outside the UK?
Whilst the basins are not available at checkout for countries outside the UK - we are happy to ship overseas. We can offer a competitive shipping price to most locations but please bear in mind that the basin waste supplied is a standard UK size and may not be suitable for your installation area.
🙋Do you sell copper and brass taps to match?
Yes we do. Please see the Copper and Brass section of our website where you will find over 20 different styles of our hand crafted taps.
🙋I have my own basin waste - can I buy just the basin/sink?
Yes, we are happy to sell the basins without the waste. Please contact us and we will reduce the price by £6.99 and remove the waste from the listing.
Some of the larger basins we sell will be suitable for kitchens - however, please bear in mind that the waste supplied is a bathroom waste which is a little narrower (1¼") than a kitchen waste, care would need to be taken to avoid food blockage.
🙋Do you have 2 identical basins - I need them side by side?
We very rarely have 2 basins the same as these are each sourced separately from different brocante markets across France and are mostly individually handmade and vintage. We occasionally have a pair, when we do - we always list them together.
🙋Are your basins suitable for kitchens?
Our basins are usually sold for bathrooms or cloakroom however, some of the larger basins we sell will be suitable for kitchens - however, please bear in mind that the waste supplied is a bathroom waste which is a little narrower (1¼") than a kitchen waste, care would need to be taken to avoid food blockage.Â
🙋Are your basins suitable for camper vans?
Yes they are. We sell a lot of these for camper vans and shepherds huts - however, please bear in mind that the waste supplied is a bathroom waste which is a little narrower (1¼") than a kitchen waste, care would need to be taken to avoid food blockage. In addition camper vans sometimes have a different water waste pipe size than this, adaptors are readily available at caravan shops.
It is possible to buy camper van wastes this size - if you would prefer to supply your own waste - please message us and we will reduce the price by £6.99 and supply the basins without a waste.
🙋I have another question, can I contact you?
 -Yes you can. These are made by Martin, our production partner, who is a gas engineer and plumber, and also my husband! He is more than happy to answer questions. We are often in France or in a noisy workshop so rarely hear the phone. The quickest way to contact us is through the website live chat for an immediate answer (you will be speaking to a real person, either Martin or Louise, not a chat bot!) or our online contact form. If you would like a call back please leave your contact details. Alternatively, leave a message on our answerphone at 01772 494985 and we will call you back