Thank you for your questions!

Please know that copper is a living surface so it will continually lighten and darken over time. However, any discoloration, patina changes, etc that may occur are not permanent. With continued regular use you may even see any patina changes begin to regain the finish of the surrounding area and more or less fix itself. In fact, the more water and oxygen that come into contact with the copper, the faster it will try to match its surrounding area. That said, if the sink does begin to patina and you don't prefer the look, there is a way to even out the sink without waiting for water and oxygen to help. It is a simple 5 minute process called a wet sand application. This is also often called a "refresh" since you would be stripping off some of the patina from the entire sink and allowing the copper to help itself heal as a whole. 500 or 600 grit wet sand paper can be picked up at most local hardware stores at minimal cost and used to complete this process.

In regards to cleaning, the best way to care for a Premier Copper Products sink is to simply use a mild soap and soft cloth when needed. As a best practice, wipe the sink dry after each use, especially in hard water areas. To help keep the copper product looking its best, apply a thin coat of wax occasionally. The wax will help to maintain the luster of the copper and will promote better water runoff. We highly recommend the Premier Copper Products W900-WAX Copper Sink Wax and Cleaner. A simple spray on/wipe off application is recommended once a month. The Copper Sink Wax and Cleaner will help protect the copper surface, will not create a wax buildup, and will dry clear to bring out the true copper color.

We hope that this information helps!