Care and Cleaning of Your Stainless Steel Sink

Stainless steel needs to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to preserve corrosion resistance.
Like any surface that is exposed to the environment, stainless steel gets dirty. Dirt and soil can consist of accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many sources, ranging from the wind, to everyday use. These contaminates will vary greatly in their effect on appearance, corrosivity and ease of removal. While some can be easily cleaned, others may require specific cleaners for effective removal. It may be necessary to identify the contaminate or experiment with various cleaners.
Maintaining the Beauty of Stainless, the Easy Care Way…
Follow these few simple steps, and your stainless products from Just Manufacturing will retain their original beauty for years to come.
- Most soaps and many detergents contain chlorides, often referred to on the label as chlorine or bleach. To avoid damage to the finish of your sink, Just Manufacturing recommends simply rinsing the sink’s surface with warm water after each use,with or without the addition of a gentle detergent.
- •Non-scratching, mild abrasive powders such as Bon-Ami, Zud, or other typical household products can also be used to take care of your stainless steel sink. These cleansers can be used with warm water, bristle brushes, sponges, or clean cloths. Unlike porcelain sinks, durable stainless steel stands up well to regular, through cleanings. However, it is important to always remember to scrub in the direction of the polish lines so your efforts blend with the surface of your sink.
- •Cleaning should always be followed by a rinse of clean, hot water.
- •Be aware that ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel wool should not be used as they may leave particles embedded on the sink’s surface which can lead to rusting.
- •If your tap water contains mineral solids (which can leave water marks), wipe the surface of the sink thoroughly with dry towels. Regularly drying your sink works wonders to prevent any spots.
Looking for that Extra Sparkle?
- Club soda will do the sparkle trick. After placing the stopper in your sink, pour some club soda in and rub with a soft cloth. As always, dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots, and surface rust.
- Add some extra shine with a few drops of baby oil. Wipe off with paper toweling and repeat for added shine.
Some things are best avoided: A Few DONT’S for Stainless Care…
- Don’t let soap cleansers dry on the sink’s surface. Rinse regularly to keep the chlorides found in most
cleansers from dulling the natural luster of stainless steel.
- Don’t use steel wool pads. The iron particles that are left behind can lead to rust and corrosion. For hard-to-clean projects, try a ScotchBrite scouring pad if the job at hand requires a little extra effort. Remember to always work in the direction of the grain.
- Don’t leave steel or cast iron cookware in your sink for extended periods of time. Iron plus moisture on top of stainless can lead to surface rust and staining.
- Don’t let rubber dish mats, wet sponges, or cleaning pads stay in your sink for a lengthy time. They trap water and discoloration, and staining can result.
Don’t use your sink as a cutting board. Knives and other sharp kitchen instruments can damage the surface of your sink