Novatto Care & Maintenance
General Care and Cleaning Guidelines
For all Novatto products, use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry. Regular cleaning and prompt wiping of spills will help prevent staining, mineral buildup, and finish damage.
Avoid abrasive powders, scouring pads, steel wool, harsh chemicals, ammonia, bleach, solvent-based cleaners, or acidic household cleaners unless specifically noted as safe for that material. When in doubt, test any new cleaner in an inconspicuous area and follow the product manufacturer instructions.
Always follow the product-specific care instructions below. Failure to follow care guidelines may affect the appearance of the product and may impact warranty coverage.
Copper Sinks
Copper sinks are easy to maintain and naturally develop a living patina over time. For basic cleaning, use mild soap and water with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Drying after each use is especially important in areas with hard or softened water to help prevent water spots and mineral buildup.
If you prefer to maintain a brighter, freshly installed appearance, apply a copper-safe wax periodically, typically every two to three months, following the wax manufacturer instructions. This can help protect the finish and slow patina changes. If the sink is allowed to patina naturally, color changes and minor variations are normal and part of the character of copper; in many cases, minor changes from brief contact with acidic items will re-patina and blend in over time.
Do not use abrasive copper cleaners, steel wool, corrosive chemicals, chlorine bleach, concentrated vinegar, citric acids such as lemon or orange juice left on the surface, or other harsh cleaners, as they may strip the patina or damage the finish. Avoid placing extremely hot pots or pans directly into the sink for extended periods, as this can temporarily affect the finish.
Crystal Sinks
To care for crystal vessel sinks, clean with a soft cloth or sponge, mild soap, and warm water, then rinse and dry. A non-abrasive glass cleaner may be used if grime or mineral deposits build up.
Avoid allowing the sink to come in contact with steel or other glass objects that could scratch or chip the surface. Never use metal brushes, scouring pads, abrasive powders, bleach, ammonia, alcohol, or chlorine-based cleaners, as they can scratch the crystal or cause clouding and haze.
For best results and to avoid installation damage, Novatto recommends using a professional plumber when installing crystal vessel sinks.
Drains, Mounting Rings, and P-Traps
Metal drains, mounting rings, and P-traps should be cleaned with mild soap and water using a soft cloth, then rinsed and dried. Regularly wiping these components dry helps reduce mineral deposits and spotting on decorative finishes.
To help preserve the appearance of plated or decorative finishes, a metal-safe cleaner or sealant may be used occasionally, following the product manufacturer instructions and testing in an inconspicuous area first.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, steel wool, or harsh chemicals on these parts, as they can scratch or damage the finish and may affect warranty coverage.
Granite Composite Sinks
Granite composite sinks are versatile, durable, and long lasting. For daily care, rinse the sink after use and dry it with a clean, lint-free cloth to help prevent water spots and limescale. For regular cleaning, use mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the surface, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
If staining occurs, a paste of baking soda and water or a composite-safe cleaner can be used to lift stains. Rinse well after any cleaner is used. To help maintain the appearance and resistance to haze or staining, you may periodically use a composite- or stone-safe cleaner and sealer as directed by the product manufacturer.
Do not use full-strength bleach, ammonia, chemical drain openers, steel wool, abrasive pads, or harsh, highly acidic or caustic cleaners, and do not use the sink to clean paint or grout materials, as these can damage the composite surface and void the warranty.
Granite, Marble, and Quartz Vanity Tops
Stone and solid-surface vanity tops such as granite, marble, and quartz offer a durable, attractive surface when properly cared for. For everyday cleaning, wipe with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water, then rinse and dry.
Granite and marble should be sealed as recommended by the sealer or stone manufacturer to help repel stains from water, soaps, and personal care products. Wipe spills promptly, especially on marble, which can stain or etch more easily.
Quartz and similar solid surfaces are generally low maintenance. Clean with mild soap and water and a soft cloth. Minor surface marks may often be blended out using very fine abrasive pads or sandpaper only if allowed by the countertop manufacturer. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scouring powders, and strong solvents on all stone and solid-surface tops.
Faucets
Novatto faucets are designed for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance. For routine cleaning, wipe the faucet with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap, then rinse and dry. This helps prevent water spots and mineral buildup and keeps the finish looking its best.
For heavier mineral deposits or oxidation, use a non-abrasive cleaner or a cleaner and sealer formulated for faucet finishes, following the product instructions and testing in an inconspicuous area first. Do not allow cleaners to remain on the surface longer than recommended, and rinse and dry any overspray from adjacent materials.
Do not use metal brushes, scouring pads, abrasive powders, ammonia, bleach, acids, wax polishes not intended for faucets, alcohol, or strong solvents, as these can damage the finish and void the warranty. Novatto recommends professional installation to ensure proper performance.
Porcelain and Ceramic Sinks
Novatto porcelain and ceramic sinks, including vessel and undermount models, are simple to care for. For routine cleaning, wipe the sink with a soapy soft cloth or sponge, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a clean cloth. This helps prevent mineral deposits, soap scum, and stains.
For heavier buildup, use a non-abrasive porcelain or ceramic cleaner or a cleaner and sealer kit formulated for sinks, following the product instructions. Sealing the surface as directed can help reduce staining and make future cleaning easier.
Do not use metal brushes, scouring pads, abrasive powders, or products like heavy scouring creams that can scratch the glaze or leave a dull film. Avoid acidic household cleaners, harsh chemical wipes, and chlorine bleach left on the surface for extended periods, as they may discolor or damage the glossy finish. Small items such as toothbrushes or jewelry will not harm the sink, but avoid impact or scraping with sharp metal objects.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks are durable and easy to maintain. After each use, rinse the sink and wipe it dry with a soft cloth to help prevent water spots and mineral buildup. At least once a week, clean with mild dish soap and warm water using a soft cloth or sponge, always working in the direction of the grain, then rinse and dry.
For more stubborn marks, use a non-abrasive stainless-steel cleaner or a cleaner specifically formulated for stainless steel, following the product instructions and testing in an inconspicuous area first. Do not allow mineral deposits, food residues, or cleaning products to sit on the surface for long periods.
Do not use steel wool, wire brushes, abrasive pads, or harsh, bleach-based, or chlorine cleaners, as they can scratch the surface and compromise corrosion resistance. Avoid leaving rubber mats, wet sponges, or metal objects in the sink for extended periods, as trapped moisture and particles can cause discoloration or rust-like spots.
Stone Sinks
Novatto stone sinks are easy to clean and maintain. For everyday care, wipe the sink with a soft cloth or sponge, mild soap, and warm water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Cleaning regularly helps prevent hard water deposits and keeps the stone looking its best.
We recommend sealing stone surfaces about once a year with a stone-safe sealer to help protect against staining and moisture absorption. Polished stone is less porous, while unpolished and textured surfaces are more porous and should be wiped dry and cleaned promptly after spills.
Do not allow surface deposits of calcium, salt, soap, or detergents to build up, as they can be difficult to remove. Do not use acidic tile cleaners, vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, abrasive cleaners, solvents, steel wool, or metal brushes, as these can etch or damage the stone finish.
Tempered Glass Vessel Sinks
Novatto glass vessel sinks are designed for easy care. To keep them looking pristine, simply wipe with a soapy soft cloth or sponge, rinse with warm water, and dry. For mineral deposits or film, a non-abrasive glass cleaner may be used as needed.
If the bottom of the glass sink is hand painted, use only mild soap and water for cleaning, as stronger cleaners may discolor or damage the painted surface. Normal items such as toothbrushes or small accessories will not scratch the glass, but avoid contact with steel or other glass objects that could chip or scratch the sink.
Do not use metal brushes, scouring pads, abrasive powders, bleach, ammonia, alcohol, or chlorine-based cleaners on glass sinks, as these can scratch or haze the surface. Novatto recommends using a professional plumber for installation.
Toilets
To keep Novatto toilets clean and bright, wash exterior porcelain surfaces with mild, soapy water, rinse with clear water, and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid aerosol cleaners, harsh detergents, or abrasive scouring powders, especially on the toilet seat, as they can scratch or dull the finish.
For the bowl, use a non-abrasive toilet or ceramic cleaner and follow the manufacturer instructions. Do not use metal brushes, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals that could scratch or damage the porcelain or seat.
Do not use in-tank toilet cleaners or drop-in tablets, as they may corrode internal fittings, cause leaks, discolor surfaces, and can void the warranty. Novatto recommends consulting a professional plumber for installation and any major service.
Vanity Stone Countertops and Sinks
Stone vanity tops and integrated stone sinks are cared for much like other stone products. Upon installation, clean the surface and apply a stone-safe sealer or the recommended sealing system to help protect against staining. Thereafter, clean with a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water, then rinse and dry.
For deeper cleaning, a non-abrasive stone cleaner or cleaner and sealer system formulated for bathroom stone surfaces can be used as needed. Wipe up spills and residues from soaps, cosmetics, and hair products promptly to prevent staining or dulling of the finish.
Do not use abrasive powders, harsh chemicals, or cleaners containing strong acids, ammonia, or bleach on stone vanity countertops and sinks, and avoid using these surfaces to clean paint or grout materials.
Wood Vanities
Novatto wood vanities are sealed and finished to provide years of service, but regular care is important. Dust or wipe the wood with a soft, slightly damp cloth and mild soap as needed, then dry immediately. Avoid standing water on wood surfaces and quickly wipe up spills.
To help protect the finish and enhance the sheen, a quality soft paste wax may be applied from time to time, following the wax manufacturer instructions. As with other natural materials, wood can change in color over time due to light exposure; some mellowing or darkening is normal and not a defect.
Do not use metal brushes, scouring pads, abrasive cleaners, alcohol, or strong solvent-based cleaners on vanities, countertops, or backsplashes, as they may scratch or damage the finish. Damage from harsh cleaners or solvents is not covered under warranty.
Copper Bathtubs
For copper bathtubs, routine care is similar to copper sinks. Clean with a gentle soap and warm water using a soft sponge or cloth, then rinse and dry with a clean, soft towel. Drying after use helps prevent water spots and supports an even patina.
Copper tubs are not lacquered and will naturally continue to patina, developing a richer color over time. If you wish to maintain the initial appearance, a copper-safe wax can be applied every two to three months, following the product instructions.
Do not use corrosives such as chlorine bleach, concentrated vinegar, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals. Do not use Epsom salts, bath salts, or oils in a copper tub, as these products can tarnish or corrode the copper surface. With proper care, a copper tub will provide many years of service and natural beauty.