How to care for and maintain your Native Trails Copper product Copper is amazingly easy to maintain, and our finishes are particularly simple since they do not show fingerprints as stainless steel or shiny copper does. For basic cleaning simply use a mild soap and warm water. Keep your copper product clean and dry by wiping it down after each use with a soft cloth. Harsh abrasives or copper cleaners should never be used on our products as they may affect the finish. For extra protection, a product such as Flitz Faucet Wax+ may be applied.  Below is information specific to each finish:   Antique, Natural and Tempered Finishes: Copper is a living metal and the patinas of our Antique, Natural, and Tempered finishes will all naturally continue to patina over time, meaning they will become a richer, darker color.  Our copper products are not lacquered or sealed; they will react to their environment as they develop character.  If acidic items such as lemons, ketchup, or red wine sit on these finishes for an extended period of time, the finish may be affected, but since copper is a living metal it will heal, or re-patina itself over time, often in a matter of days.  The beauty of copper is that it is ever changing and no two pieces are ever alike.    Brushed Nickel Finish: Our Brushed Nickel finish is achieved by plating nickel over copper, followed by careful hand-brushing.  It is a very easy finish to maintain. Acidic items left on the nickel finish for extended periods of time may leave a slight dark mark, but this is easily removed with chrome polish (which can be found at hardware or automotive supply stores). More copper care instructions can be downloaded here.