How to clean a stainless steel kitchen sink?

2025-07-28

As a common facility in modern kitchens, stainless steel sinks are deeply loved by consumers for their durability, corrosion resistance and easy cleaning. However, as the use time increases, stainless steel sinks will inevitably accumulate scale, stains and scratches. If not cleaned and maintained in time, the sink will not only affect the overall appearance of the kitchen, but may even affect the service life of the sink.


The correct cleaning method can not only keep the stainless steel kitchen sink as bright as new, but also effectively extend its service life.


This article will introduce in detail how to clean a stainless steel sink from multiple aspects, covering methods for removing common stains, how to prevent the sink from scratching, how to keep the sink bright, etc., to help you master a set of effective sink cleaning skills.

stainless steel kitchen sink

Why is it easy for stainless steel sinks to accumulate stains?

The reason why stainless steel kitchen sinks are prone to stains is mainly because the sink is frequently used in daily life and is often exposed to water, grease, food residues and other substances. Long-term improper use or untimely cleaning can easily accumulate stains on the surface of stainless steel sinks, especially scale and oil stains. In addition, the surface of stainless steel has tiny pores, which easily absorb minerals in the water, causing scale and rust.


Although the surface of the stainless steel kitchen sink has been specially treated, if inappropriate detergents or tools are used during the cleaning process, it may cause scratches and damage to the surface, making it easier for stains to accumulate. Therefore, it is crucial to use the correct methods and tools when cleaning the stainless steel sink.


What are the steps for daily cleaning of stainless steel sinks?

Daily cleaning of stainless steel sinks is not complicated. As long as you master some basic skills, you can keep the sink as bright as new. Here are some general steps for cleaning stainless steel sinks:


1. Rinse with warm water

The first step in cleaning a stainless steel sink is to rinse the surface of the sink with warm water. Warm water can help soften scale and stains, laying the foundation for subsequent cleaning work. When rinsing the sink with warm water, you can use a spray head or cup to spray water evenly on the surface of the sink to ensure that every corner is wet.


2. Choose the right detergent

Choosing the right detergent is essential for cleaning a stainless steel sink. There are many cleaners on the market that are specifically used for cleaning stainless steel sinks. Usually, these cleaners contain decontamination ingredients that can effectively remove scale, oil stains and stains. If there is no special cleaner, you can use some household cleaning products, such as white vinegar, lemon juice or dishwashing liquid. It is worth noting that you should not use cleaners containing chlorine, bleach or abrasive ingredients, which will damage the surface of the sink.


3. Wipe the surface of the sink

Pour the cleaner on the surface of the stainless steel kitchen sink and gently wipe the sink with a soft cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to cleaning all corners of the sink, including the bottom and edge of the sink. For stubborn stains, you can spray the cleaner on the stains and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping, which will help soften and remove the stains.


When wiping, you should follow the grain direction of the stainless steel surface to avoid unnecessary scratches.


4. Clean the faucet and drain hole

The faucet and drain hole are where the stainless steel kitchen sink is prone to accumulate stains. When cleaning, you can use a soft brush to clean the gaps between the faucet and the drain hole to avoid stains. For the faucet, use an appropriate amount of detergent to wipe it to keep it shiny. If you find scale on the faucet, you can soak it in vinegar for a while and then wipe it.


5. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry

After cleaning, rinse the stainless steel kitchen sink thoroughly with clean water to remove the residual detergent. Finally, use a clean soft cloth to wipe the surface of the sink dry to avoid water stains leaving marks on the sink. Wiping the sink dry not only keeps it shiny, but also prevents the accumulation of scale.

kitchen sink

How to remove scale and rust from a stainless steel sink?

Scale and rust are common problems that plague stainless steel sinks. Because the water contains minerals, after long-term use of the stainless steel sink, scale is easy to accumulate on the surface of the sink, especially in hard water areas, where the scale problem is more serious. Rust is mainly caused by the rust formed by the reaction of the sink with oxygen in the water when it is exposed to a humid environment for a long time.


1. Remove scale

·White vinegar: White vinegar is a very effective tool for removing scale. Pour white vinegar on the surface of the sink and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The acidic effect of white vinegar softens the scale. Then use a sponge or cloth to wipe the sink, and the scale can be easily removed. For stubborn scale, you can use a stronger vinegar, or even soak the entire stainless steel kitchen sink in vinegar.

·Lemon juice: Lemon juice contains natural acidic substances that can help remove scale. Apply lemon juice on the surface of the sink, let it sit for a while, and then wipe it with a cloth. The effect is remarkable. The aroma of lemon juice can also effectively remove odors from the sink.


2. Remove rust

·Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda): Baking soda is a mild decontamination ingredient that can effectively remove rust from the surface of the stainless steel kitchen sink. Mix baking soda and water into a paste, apply it to the rust, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it with a cloth. Baking soda not only removes rust, but also maintains the smooth surface of the sink.

·Steel wool: For more stubborn rust, you can use stainless steel or copper wool for gentle wiping. However, be extra careful when using it to avoid excessive friction on the surface of the stainless steel kitchen sink, which may cause scratches.

stainless steel sink

How to prevent stainless steel kitchen sinks from getting scratched?

Although stainless steel sinks are generally very durable, they may also get scratched if they are not used properly or the cleaning method is not appropriate. To prevent scratches, the following points should be noted:


·Use soft cleaning tools: Avoid using tools such as steel wool and hard brushes for cleaning. You should use soft cloths, sponges or special soft brushes.

·Avoid using heavy objects directly: Do not place hard or sharp objects directly in the sink, especially knives, pots, etc. These objects can easily leave scratches on the surface of the sink.

·Regular maintenance: Regularly perform deep cleaning and maintenance of the sink to avoid stain accumulation and reduce wear on the surface.


How to keep the stainless steel kitchen sink shiny?

After using the stainless steel sink for a long time, some water stains, fingerprints or oil stains may appear on the surface, affecting its brightness. In order to maintain the gloss of the sink, you can use the following methods:


· Use a special stainless steel care agent: There are many care agents designed for stainless steel surfaces on the market. You can apply a layer on the surface of the stainless steel kitchen sink to help remove fingerprints and stains, protect the surface of the sink, and delay wear.

· Apply cooking oil: Cooking oil can form a protective film on the surface of stainless steel to keep the sink bright. Dip a small amount of cooking oil with a clean cloth, apply it evenly on the surface of the sink, and wipe it gently.

· Keep it dry: After cleaning the stainless steel kitchen sink each time, you should wipe the surface of the sink with a clean cloth in time to avoid water stains and stains.

stainless steel kitchen sink

How does Higold support international buyers with sourcing from China?

Higold simplifies the sourcing process for international buyers by offering comprehensive support — from quotation to delivery. The company provides detailed product specs, high-resolution images, certifications, and professional packing solutions.

A multilingual sales team is available to assist with purchasing inquiries, customs documentation, and logistics coordination. With over 86 countries served and a reputation for timely supply, Higold makes it easy for companies to import kitchen sinks and faucets directly from a trusted China factory.

Get the latest price? We will reply as soon as possible (within 12 hours)