Stainless Steel Sink Cleaning & Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide
A stainless steel sink gives your kitchen a modern and professional look. To maintain this, regular cleaning and proper maintenance are essential.
In this article, we share our best tips for daily and periodic maintenance so that your stainless steel sink remains beautiful, and you can enjoy it for years to come.
Why Proper Maintenance is Essential
A stainless steel sink that is not cleaned regularly can quickly develop stubborn lime and water stains. Grease and dirt build up, causing the shine to fade and the surface to look dull. In some cases, small scratches and corrosion may even appear.
By neglecting maintenance, your sink not only loses its appearance but also becomes harder to clean. With just a few simple routines, you can avoid these issues and keep your sink in top condition.
Material Properties of Stainless Steel
Not everyone is familiar with the unique characteristics of stainless steel. It is normal for stainless steel to show slight signs of use over time.
Scratches are normal
Especially in the beginning, small scratches may stand out, especially if they run across the grain. This is a natural feature of the material.
Daily use reduces scratches
Over time, most scratches fade, giving the surface a more uniform satin finish.
Microfiber cloths help
Light rubbing with a microfiber cloth helps to create a more even surface.
New sinks may seem more sensitive
In the first few weeks, scratches may be more visible, but with use, they become less noticeable and the sink develops its characteristic satin finish.
Daily Maintenance
Just a few minutes a day are enough to keep your sink in top condition:
- Rinse the sink with warm water and mild dish soap after use.
- Dry with a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
- Always rub in the direction of the grain to minimize scratches.
Periodic Maintenance
In addition to daily care, it’s important to thoroughly clean your sink every month. For the best cleaning and protection, we recommend using Hotrega Polish Paste:
- Apply a small amount with a microfiber cloth.
- Always rub in the direction of the grain.
- Rinse and dry the sink completely.
Result: deep cleaning, protection, and long-lasting shine.
No polish paste at hand?
As a quick alternative, use baking soda with warm water and a microfiber cloth. A liquid, mild stainless steel cleaner from the supermarket or hardware store can also work. Make sure it’s suitable for kitchen use and leaves no greasy residue.
What to Avoid
- Do not use steel wool, harsh scouring agents, or pure vinegar.
- Do not leave wet sponges or cloths in the sink.
- Avoid leaving metal pots or cutlery standing in the sink for long periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove stains, rust spots, or light scratches?
Use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of our recommended Polish Paste. Always rub in the direction of the grain—this will gradually reduce small scratches and restore the sink’s even satin finish.
Can I use vinegar on stainless steel?
Only in diluted form and always rinse well afterward. Pure vinegar can damage the protective layer of the steel.
Can I use oil to make my sink shine?
Yes, you can use a small amount of vegetable oil (such as sunflower or olive oil) to give your stainless steel sink temporary shine. Apply a few drops to a soft microfiber cloth and rub lightly over the surface. This will create a beautiful shine and help mask light stains.
Ready to make your sink shine again?
➡️ Order Polish Paste and give your sink the care it deserves.