Many of us take our sinks for granted. Maintaining a sink doesn’t seem like a priority. That is, until we can’t get that stain out, or worse, we use the wrong product and worsen the damage.
Let’s look at more popular sink types and share some Rosie On The House tips for keeping them in top shape.
Stainless Steel
Stainless is perhaps the most popular sink material because it is lightweight and cost-effective. Here are some cleaning tips:
- After every use, take a soft cloth, wipe, and dry the sink to prevent material from hardening and water spotsfrom appearing.
- Always clean in the direction of the grain.
- For stubborn stains, apply a paste made of baking soda and water in the sink. Leave it on for an hour, then wipe with a soft cloth.
- Use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water for mineral deposits. Finish with a mild detergent.
- Avoid abrasive cleaning solutions or sponges. Steel wool is a no-no, as it will scratch the sink.
Porcelain or Porcelain Covered Cast Iron
Whether the sink is porcelain coated or made with porcelain, care practices are the same. Dropping heavy pans or objects in the sink can cause chips, which should be repaired immediately, or more significant damage can happen.
- Clean after each use with a soft cloth and dish detergent. Wiping out the sinks will prevent stains from taking hold.
- If stains happen, the best way to clean them is with a mild bleach (50/50) mix, baking soda, cleaning vinegar, lemon juice, and a nonabrasive cloth.
Granite Composite
Sinks made of granite composites are trendy, with many choices for color selection and finish types. These resin-based sinks have crushed granite set in the resin.
- Use dish detergent and a soft sponge to wash the sides and bottom, then rinse with tap water. Wipe dry with a soft cloth. This practice generally prevents mineral deposits from building up.
- When there is a buildup or discoloration from sources such as red wine, apply a baking soda and vinegar solution and scrub the area with a nonabrasive sponge.
- Never use an abrasive cleaning tool. These sinks will scratch.
Acrylic
Acrylic sinks can add a great splash to any kitchen or bath. However, they are susceptible to damage from hot objects such as a pot or pan.
- As with all sinks, daily care should include washing the sink with dish detergent and wiping it dry with a soft cloth.
- These sinks are prone to scratches, so no abrasive cleaning products or tools should ever be used.
- For stubborn stains, baking soda and water paste work best. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for an hour, and then wipe off with a soft cloth.
Copper
One of Arizona’s five Cs, copper, is a popular design alternative for Southwestern-themed kitchens or baths. Maintaining it generally takes more time than other sinks.
- Daily care is key here. Wash with dish soap and dry thoroughly to avoid mineral buildup.
- If mineral deposits catch up to you, a light vinegar (50/50 with water) or salt and lemon mix can be used. Timing is essential, though. Don’t leave the acid on too long, as it may change the patina in contact areas. The best advice here is to try a test spot beforehand.
- Apply a copper protectant or wax to the sink at least monthly to protect and restore the copper’s look.
Like just about everything else in our home, our sinks will last a long time and continue to maintain their original appearance with simple daily care and, depending on the sink, a regular cycle of extra care.
Any discussion about sink maintenance would not be complete without mentioning the drains and disposals.
Sink Drains
Sinks drains that are slow or blocked can be cleaned. Chemical drain cleaners are a big no-no! Organic enzyme cleaners such as The BioPros Drain Cleaner work well. They tend to be a little pricier, but the environmental and plumbing savings are worth the investment. Use a home-based drain cleaner by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of regular white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about an hour, and then pour a pot of boiling water down the drain.
If you are handy and can reach under the sink, you can remove the drain trap and clean the pipes directly. Here is a link to our article on how to remove the ‘P’ trap.
Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals need to be cleaned once a month. Baking soda, vinegar, and water are good cleaning agents. Anything acidic may hasten the deterioration of the grinding blades. Again, unplug the disposal before cleaning or maintaining it.
The most important preventative measure is using the disposal properly. What you put down the disposal is very important. Never put pasta, coffee grinds, grease, eggshells, fruit pits, potato peels, or large food items that expand. The garbage disposal is not an alternative to the trash bin. It is designed to take small bits of food scraped off the plate.
We often hear from you folks about homemade cleaning tips you have either handed down to you or discovered on your own. We would love for you to share those with us at info@rosieonthehouse.com.
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Homeowner Handbook | #SinkMaintenance
PODCAST
March 15, 2025
Our Weekly To Do on sinks and sink maintenance. Trends in kitchen designs, what’s in and thankfully what’s out. Our Arizona Staycation winner Shannon talk about her experience from the hotel to food and more in Jerome, Arizona. A texting scam on energy savings you should know about. And other items of interest around the house.
Original Broadcast Archive Page With Expanded Content
PHOTO CREDIT
