Most of us probably rinse and wipe our kitchen sink regularly enough, but stainless steel sinks really benefit from a proper cleaning. While stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to stains, it can lose its shine over time due to water spots, food residue, and general wear and tear. Here are some easy tips to keep your stainless steel sink looking great.

Materials Needed

  • Mild dish soap
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Olive oil or mineral oil
  • Soft sponge or cloth
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Old toothbrush
  • Spray bottle

What to Avoid

Abrasive materials can scratch a stainless steel surface. Don't use steel wool, steel brushes, or wire brushes. Even abrasive sponges are too harsh. Bleach can cause discoloration. Harsh chemical cleaners can damage the finish. 

Cleaning Stainless Steel

  1. Rinse the sink with warm water. This removes any loose debris or food particles from a dirty sink.
  2. Apply mild dish soap and scrub. Use a damp, non-abrasive sponge or cleaning cloth with a few drops of dish soap to scrub the entire sink. Pay extra attention to any stained or greasy areas.
  3. Rinse thoroughly. After this initial cleaning, rinse all soap residue down the drain.
  4. Sprinkle baking soda over the sink. Evenly shake dry baking soda across the sink. This will act as a gentle abrasive to help lift stains and acts as an odor remover.
  5. Wipe with a soft sponge. Using a damp soft sponge, gently rub the sink in the direction of the stainless steel grain to avoid scratches.
  6. Clean the faucet and fixtures with vinegar. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray it onto the faucet and fixtures. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled scrub brush. The vinegar will also stop the growth of bacteria in those nooks and crannies.
  7. Rinse and dry the sink. Rinse the entire sink and fixtures with hot water and dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots and a grimy appearance.
  8. Polish with olive oil or mineral oil. Apply a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil to a clean, dry cloth and buff the sink to a shiny finish. This helps protect the surface and give an extra shine.
Washing carrots in a sink under water.
Properly clean soil and pesticides off your vegetables. Credit: Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

FAQ

Can you do anything to prevent hard water spots and stains?

To prevent hard water stains and spots, wipe the sink after each use. Easier said than done, but a regular cleaning of the entire surface with a clean cloth will save you a deeper cleaning effort later. At the very least, avoid leaving food scraps or residual soap for extended periods. Using a water softener can reduce the mineral content in your water, because hard water causes spots. Avoid leaving standing water and dirty dishes in the sink to minimize mineral deposits and watermarks. Also, replace your kitchen sponge regularly.

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How often should you change your garbage disposal baffle?

You should check the garbage disposal baffle (aka the splash guard) every six months to twelve months for wear and tear. They are meant to last two to five years but that depends on usage and quality. If you notice that the baffle is cracked, torn, or no longer effectively preventing splashback, it's time to replace it. Maintenance through regular cleaning can help extend its lifespan.