Stainless steel sinks are everywhere, but are you giving yours the proper TLC?
By Tina Jepson
Stainless steel sinks are found in most modern kitchens and commercial facilities throughout the country. They’re durable, made-to-last, widely available, and affordable compared to other sink materials like porcelain and copper. Since stainless steel is resistant to both hot and cold, it’s truly a great medium for a kitchen sink.
Photo by shutterstock
If you’re thinking about purchasing a stainless-steel sink to go with your natural stone countertops or you want to ensure you’re taking care of the one you already own, follow these six best practices.
1. Dry Wet Spots
Your kitchen sink encounters a lot of water over the course of one day. Whether you’re washing dishes, cleaning paint brushes, or filling up a glass to drink, water is bound to get everywhere. Unfortunately, all this water eventually evaporates, which causes ugly-looking water spots.
Photo by dreamstime
To remedy, simply wipe the water from your sink with a paper towel or absorbent sponge after every use so as to not allow water to dry on the stainless-steel surface. It’s an easy step that’s bound to keep your sink looking clean and spot-free.
2. Spot Clean Immediately
On the same note, your sink is likely to encounter a fair share of food and other debris. Again, all this stuff can easily stain or even damage the steel. Therefore, it’s always good to remove all those sink “extras” with a towel or sponge the minute they fall in.
Photo by dreamstime
3. Deep-Clean Weekly
The cleanser you use to perform a weekly deep-clean of your sink really does matter. While you may be tempted to use normal, everyday formulas like Windex or Pledge, you may wind up with streaks if you go this route. Instead, what you need is a cleanser that both cleans and moisturizes your steel.
Once a week or more (depending on how much use your sink gets) use DuPont’s StoneTech Stainless Steel Pro Cleaner. It’s the perfect formula to help you maintain the natural luster of your sink, even if it takes a bit of abuse from time to time.
4. Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers
Even if you see a scrubbing pad or steel wool sponge lying next to the sink on your counter, don’t be tempted to pick it up and use it to clean your stainless-steel sink. In fact, stainless steel, although overall quite durable, still gets scratched easily.
When you use an abrasive scrubber, you’re guaranteeing more scratches and indentations, which decreases the overall appearance of your sink.
Instead, always choose a paper towel or a clean kitchen rag.
Photo by dreamstime
5. Go with the Grain
Did you know that stainless steel actually has a grain? It does and it’s noticeable if you give your sink a good look. When you apply cleaner with a towel, it’s always best to go with the grain as you rub it into your stainless steel. This will help decrease the appearance of scratches, fingerprints, and more.
If you can’t find the grain, don’t worry. As you rub your cleanser into the steel, you’ll notice that it doesn’t flow and absorb as well if you’re going across the grain.
Photo by shutterstock
6. Treat with Care
When all is said and done, your stainless steel is built to last, but it definitely requires upkeep. Avoid nicking your sink with silverware, especially sharp knives. In addition, don’t spray harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia on or near your sink as this will also cause spotting.
Treat your stainless-steel sink with care and you’ll prolong it’s life and overall beauty for years to come. Yes, this material is strong enough to handle the day-in, day-out wear and tear from all sorts of kitchen use, but it still needs some extra TLC to remain vibrant.
Photo by dreamstime
https://companymovers9.wordpress.com/
https://newmoverdotblog.wordpress.com/
https://qwasdew.wordpress.com/
https://gigisaad.wordpress.com/