How Can I Clean My Stainless Steel Sink

Stainless steel sinks are popular for their durability and easy-care maintenance. However, even stainless steel sinks can become stained or discoloured over time. If your stainless steel sink is looking less than its best, there are a few things you can do to clean it and restore its shine.

First, it is important to understand what causes stainless steel sinks to become stained or discoloured. Stainless steel is an alloy made up of iron, chromium, and nickel. When stainless steel is exposed to water or air, the chromium in the alloy reacts with oxygen to form a thin layer of chromium oxide. This chromium oxide layer protects the iron in the alloy from rust and corrosion. However, if the chromium oxide layer is damaged, the iron in the alloy can react with oxygen to form rust.

There are a few things that can damage the chromium oxide layer on stainless steel sinks. These include:

Using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
Leaving standing water in the sink for long periods of time
Exposing the sink to high heat

If you want to keep your stainless steel sink looking its best, it is important to avoid doing these things. Instead, follow these tips for cleaning and maintaining your stainless steel sink:

Use a mild dish soap and warm water to clean your sink. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the chromium oxide layer.
Rinse the sink thoroughly after cleaning it. Leaving standing water in the sink for long periods of time can cause the chromium oxide layer to break down.
Wipe the sink dry with a clean cloth after each use. This will help to prevent water spots and stains from forming.
Avoid exposing the sink to high heat. High heat can cause the chromium oxide layer to break down.

If your stainless steel sink does become stained or discoloured, there are a few things you can do to remove the stains. Here are a few tips:

Try using a commercial stainless steel cleaner. These cleaners are specially formulated to remove stains from stainless steel without damaging the chromium oxide layer.
You can also try using a homemade cleaner made with baking soda and water. To make this cleaner, mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the area thoroughly with water.
If the stains are still visible, you can try using a mild abrasive cleaner, such as Bar Keepers Friend. Apply the cleaner to a damp cloth and rub the stained area gently. Rinse the area thoroughly with water.

With a little care and maintenance, you can keep your stainless steel sink looking its best for years to come.