How to Care for Stainless Steel Sinks

Wash stainless steel sinks daily with warm water and dish detergent, then dry to prevent water spots. For a weekly deep cleaning, sprinkle a small amount of mildly abrasive powdered cleanser in the sink, scrub with a nylon brush and water, then rinse and dry. Use a toothbrush and all-purpose cleanser to clean hard to reach areas.

Stainless steel may pit if exposed to concentrated chlorine bleach or strong acids, so use oxygen bleach or a solution of 1 part chlorine bleach to 10 parts water to remove stains. Rub stubborn stains with fine-grit sandpaper, but follow the grain of the sink’s finish to minimize scratching.

Maintain stainless steel sinks by preventing deep scratches. Line a sink with a towel when washing dishes, and never use harsh abrasives when cleaning. Prevent rust by avoiding extended contact with regular steel.

Over time, the fine scratches that develop in a stainless steel sink form a patina that gives the sink a rustic beauty. Some moderate scratches can be removed with a commercial stainless steel polish, but others will require refinishing by sanding out the scratches and applying polish.