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How often do you find yourself cleaning your sink? No, the dish soap coming off your dishes doesn’t count. Cleaning your sink can seem like a once in a blue moon task, but it’s important to clean it on a regular basis. Thankfully, cleaning your kitchen sink is an easy task when done correctly. Here are our tips on how to clean your kitchen sink like an expert.
We get it, you’re sitting there asking yourself, “How can my kitchen sink even get dirty? I use it to clean my dishes. How bad could it possibly get?” Well, the answer is pretty bad. Leftover food particles are left in your sink all the time, especially if you’re notorious for leaving dishes in the sink overnight (looking at you, college roommates).
This build-up can cause your sink to smell bad and even cause mold if left untouched. Thankfully, if you regularly clean your kitchen sink, all of this can be avoided!
Not all kitchen sinks are the same, which means that not all kitchen sinks should be cleaned the same way. We’ll be going over our top two selling finishes, stainless steel and fireclay. If your sink is a different finish, be sure to double-check that the cleaning technique won’t have negative effects on your sink!
How to Clean Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
One of the most important things to keep in mind with stainless steel sinks (and honestly, all sinks) is to rinse after every use. Just simply running water throughout the sink for a minute or so will drastically improve the cleanliness of your sink.
Beyond regular rinsing, once a week, you should use a mild cleaner like Comet to clean your sink. Cover your sink with the cleaner and rub with a sponge, and softly scrub in the direction of your polish. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel afterward!
If you find yourself in a situation where your sink has really tough-to-remove spots, and your normal cleaner, like Comet, isn’t cutting it. You can try using a stainless steel cleaner like ZLINE Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish (STCLT-8).
ZLINE Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish (STCLT-8)
$19.95
Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. ZLINE Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish (STCLT-8) helps you preserve a pristine shine and high-quality finish by easily eliminating fingerprints, dissolving grease, and removing streaks, smudges, and even… Read More
Lastly, you can always keep a rising basket in your sink to help protect the finish.
Shop Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
How to Clean Fireclay Kitchen Sinks
Fireclay sinks come with lots of benefits, one of which is that they’re fairly easy to clean. Once a week, lather the sink with a simple dish soap and scrub with a gentle rag. Be sure to give it a good rinse afterwards to ensure there’s no leftover dish soap!
Additionally, we recommend waxing your fireclay sink once a month. Liquid wax can be purchased at most hardware stores as well as on Amazon, and it’s a great tool to keep your sink looking brand new!
Apply the wax to your fireclay sink with a soft cloth and let it dry completely before using it again. The wax makes it harder for unwanted substances to cling to your sink.
Things to Avoid
The last thing you want to do when cleaning your sink is permanently damage it. Here are some things to avoid in order to keep your sink looking amazing!
If you have a stainless steel sink, avoid cleaning across the satin finish lines, as this can cause damage to your sink’s finish
Avoid letting soap or cleaners dry on your sink’s surface, as it can ruin the finish
Avoid cleaning your sink with chlorine bleach products. These can have horrible after-effects on your sink, especially stainless steel
Avoid using a steel wool pad when cleaning your sink. You wouldn’t use steel wool to clean your phone screen, so why would you use it on your sink? Avoid these and keep your sink scratch-free
Avoid leaving wet sponges, cloths, or cleaning pads in your sink. Leaving these in your sink can cause your sink to smell and, in some cases, lead to rust
As you can see, it’s easy to keep your kitchen sink looking clean! Just remember to always rinse your sink and clean it at least once a week. Just be sure to avoid using steel wool and other abrasive products that can permanently damage your sink.
ZLINE 33 in. Garmisch Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLS-33)
$611.99
$679.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 33 in. Garmisch Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLS-33) provides a superior cleaning experience by pairing unmatched quality with… Read More
If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen sink, be sure to check out our ZLINE Kitchen Sink Collection here at Rustic Kitchen and Bath. We sell a multitude of sinks, including copper and stainless steel, as well as multiple mounting types in each finish. If you have any questions, reach out to us on our contact page or any of our socials.
FAQs
How often should I clean my kitchen sink?
Your kitchen sink should be rinsed after every use and given a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. Regular cleaning prevents odor buildup, staining, and the growth of bacteria or mold.
Why does my kitchen sink get dirty if I use it to clean dishes?
Food particles, grease, and residue are left behind after washing dishes, especially if dishes sit in the sink overnight. Over time, this buildup can cause unpleasant odors and surface stains if not cleaned regularly.
Do all kitchen sinks require the same cleaning method?
No, different sink materials require different care. Stainless steel and fireclay sinks, for example, have unique finishes that respond best to specific cleaning techniques. Always confirm that a cleaner is safe for your sink’s material.
What is the best way to clean a stainless steel kitchen sink?
Rinse the sink thoroughly after each use. Once a week, apply a mild cleaner and gently scrub using a soft sponge in the direction of the grain. Rinse well and dry with a towel to prevent water spots.
Can I use stainless steel cleaner on my sink?
Yes, stainless steel cleaners can be used for tougher spots when mild cleaners are not effective. Always follow the product instructions and avoid overuse to protect the finish.
How do I clean a fireclay kitchen sink?
Fireclay sinks can be cleaned weekly using dish soap and a soft cloth or rag. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue and maintain the sink’s glossy finish.
Should I wax a fireclay sink?
Yes, waxing a fireclay sink about once a month helps protect the surface and makes it more resistant to stains and buildup. Liquid wax applied with a soft cloth works best.
What cleaning products should I avoid using on kitchen sinks?
Avoid steel wool, abrasive pads, chlorine bleach, and harsh chemical cleaners. These products can scratch, dull, or permanently damage both stainless steel and fireclay finishes.
Why should I avoid cleaning against the grain on stainless steel sinks?
Scrubbing against the grain can create visible scratches and damage the sink’s finish. Cleaning in the direction of the grain helps preserve the surface appearance.
Can leaving wet sponges or cloths in the sink cause damage?
Yes, leaving wet sponges or cloths in the sink can cause unpleasant odors and, in some cases, contribute to rust or discoloration, especially in stainless steel sinks.
Is drying the sink after cleaning really necessary?
Drying your sink after cleaning helps prevent water spots, mineral deposits, and streaks, keeping the finish looking clean and polished.
How can I keep my sink looking new long-term?
Consistent rinsing, weekly cleaning with appropriate products, avoiding abrasive tools, and drying after use are the best ways to maintain your kitchen sink’s appearance and performance over time.
