How To Clean A Stainless Sink: A Step-by-Step Guide
Most homeowners love stainless steel sinks. They are sleek, shiny, and most importantly stainless steel offers excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. They won’t crack, chip or fade, and are known for their durability.
However, stainless steel sinks can be quite noticeable when they’re dirty. These sinks need to be cleaned regularly to retain their original brand-new look. Read on as we’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide on how to clean a stainless steel sink properly so you can easily get your sink looking shiny and sparkling again.
Here’re some household items that you’ll need to get ready:
Tools: soft cleaning cloth, soft sponge, spray bottle
Materials: baking soda, lemon or lime, olive oil, vinegar
Materials: baking soda, lemon or lime, olive oil, vinegar
Step 1: Empty and rise the sink
Empty the sink entirely including any rubber mats or metal sink grids if you have them. Then, rinse your sink well in hot water. If you have a food waste disposer like InSinkErator, you can run it a couple times to make sure it isn’t clogged.
Step 2: Coat the sink with a thin layer of baking soda
Sprinkle the damp sink with baking soda. Cover the entire surface of the sink with a thin layer of baking soda and be sure to include the edges.
Step 3: Scrub in the direction of the grain
Using a wet sponge or cleaning cloth, scrub the sink with the baking soda. Scrub in the direction of the stainless steel grain, this will help you clean better and will make your sink last longer. The baking soda works as an abrasive cleaner but is gentle enough to not scratch the stainless steel surface.
Step 4: Scrub again with lemon or lime
Cut a lemon or lime in half and use it to scrub the sink again with the baking soda paste that is still coating your sink. The acidic juice can help fight bacteria, and what’s more, it can freshen your sink with a vitalizing citrus smell.
Step 5: Rinse the sink
Rinse away the baking soda paste and lemon juice with water.
Step 6: Spray vinegar to remove stubborn limescale
Spray the white vinegar evenly over the kitchen sink. Vinegar naturally disinfects while helping remove hard water stains from your stainless steel sink.
Step 7: Dry and shine with olive oil
Finally, dry your sink with a dry cloth. Then pour a small amount of olive oil onto a dry cloth and rub it onto the sink in the direction of the grain so that your sink looks extra shiny and sparkles.
The Don’ts
| WHAT TO AVOID | WHY TO AVOID IT |
|---|---|
| Chloride-based cleaners | Chlorine and bleach will cause pin holes to develop |
| Sharp objects | The sharp edge may puncture the surface |
| Onion juice | A chemical galvanic reaction transfers the metal, causing pin holes |
| Scouring pads | These are abrasive and will scratch the surface |
| Hard water | May leave spots, deposits, that will break down the stainless steel |
Recommended Cleaners for Stainless Steel
| TYPES OF SITUATION | RECOMMENDED CLEANING AGENT |
|---|---|
| Routine cleaning, grease/oil | Gentle soaps, mild ammonia, detergent |
| Smudges and fingerprints | 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner, Arca! 20, Lac-O-Nu, Lumin |
| Stubborn stains & discoloration | Allchem Concentrated Cleaner, Cameo, Talc, Zud, First Impression |
| Restoration | Benefit, Super Sheen |
As you can see, cleaning the kitchen sink is actually easier than you think. Just remember to wear your gloves to avoid baking soda making your skin feel dry and uncomfortable. Hope this guide helps. If you need more information or have enquiries, please feel free to contact us.
The information given in this blog is designed to provide helpful knowledge on the subject discussed. Please be mindful that results produced may vary due to different quality of sink and other factors. Signature is not liable for any damages arising from the use of this guide, or from any action or decision taken as a result of using this guide. Please contact your kitchen installer should you have any doubts.