If you are having a stainless steel sink that is a bit dingy, then you can make it look shiny just like new using materials that you most probably have in your home. To ensure this result, you should stay away from heavy and hard scrubbing as it would scratch the sink. Here is a quick-clean guide to safely buff your way to a sparkling sink that will stay that way for weeks:
1. Secure the things that you will need for the project, which include a sponge, vinegar, baking soda, olive oil, orange or lemon peel and paper towel.
2. Wash and rinse your sink quickly, removing all food bits and dishes from the drain and then sprinkle the whole sink with baking soda. Using a soft sponge, you can work to scrub the basin in a circular movement. As you can see, baking soda will softly clean without scratching the surface of the sink.
3. Using vinegar, rinse the sink and let it fizz to work its natural disinfecting properties, while removing hard water stains from the sink, and then lightly rub the surface with the sponge. Rinse with water. To keep the sink smelling fresh afterwards, you can drop a garbage disposal freshener.
4. Using the orange or lemon peel, you should rub the entire sink basin. This will help deodorize the sink, while helping it shine again like new.
5. To finish things up, buff the stainless steel surface of your sink with a paper towel, with a touch of olive oil. Now, your sink will stay shiny without scratches for weeks before needing a refresher.
More Useful Tips
Aside from baking soda, you can also use club soda to get that shine for your sink. As always, you should dry it with soft cloth to prevent surface rust and water spots. You can also add more sparkle and a gleaming finish by applying dry flour—rub it in with a soft cloth, rinse and then dry.
When you are often using your sink, make sure you rinse it on a regular basis to prevent the chloride in cleansers from affecting the stainless steel’s natural luster. Do not let rags, towels, sponges and soap cleansers to dry on the sink’s surface, as they can dull it, not to mention that it harbors unwanted microorganisms, such as bacteria. The same goes to leaving steel and cast iron cookware in it extended periods, as together with moisture, iron can lead to surface staining and rust.
Avoid using steel wool pads on stainless steel sinks, as they would leave iron particles on the sink’s surface that can lead to corrosion and rust. If it is really difficult to clean, you can try using a ScotchBrite type of scouring pad, and rub it the direction of the grain. Most importantly, do not use your sink as cutting board, as sharp kitchen instruments naturally damage your sink’s surface.
Much of the beauty of your stainless steel sink lies in its enduring good looks, so follow this guide to clean it without scratching.
