To keep your sinks clean, germ-free and
looking new, you need to do regular maintenance on them. The kind of
care and maintenance you need to do largely depends on the material
your sink has. Here are sinks care tips for common sink materials:
Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks are relatively easy to clean and maintain.
However, to prevent scratches, dents and to keep it looking new, you
need to do regular maintenance on it. Clean your stainless steel
sink with hand dishwashing liquid detergent and water, or a baking
soda and water solution. Rinse thoroughly and use a soft cloth or
paper towel to polish the surface. Do not use scouring powders or
steel wool pads as they will surely scratch your sink. Use rubber or
plastic mats to avoid pans and tableware from marking and scratching
the surface. You can also add a small amount of vinegar or ammonia
to achieve a more polished look.
Porcelain Enamel Sinks
Never leave acid-based spills or acidic food to sit on the surface
of the sink for a long time. Most porcelain iron sinks are not acid
resistant and tends to discolor and even etch when exposed to harsh
materials like acids for a long time. It may be best to use plastic
or perforated mats to protect porcelain sinks from any damage.
Stone Sinks
Natural stones are porous so that
certain substances may tend to stain your stone sink. Stone sinks
also tend to absorb moisture if not properly protected. Because of
this, it is best to wipe spills immediately and to avoid the
build-up of by-products such as salt, lime, calcium or detergents.
Stone sinks must be regularly cleaned using a sponge or a soft cloth
with a non-abrasive neutral detergent and warm water, and rinsed
thoroughly. (Note: Never use acidic or base cleaners or abrasive
cleaning pads!)
Copper Sinks
Copper sinks are unique since they are the only kind that develops a
patina due to copper's normal reaction with the environment. This
patina is unique for every sink: they can never to duplicated, nor
can they be rushed. Copper sinks come in two general types: the
natural brown finish and the clear glossy shine finish.
Never use hard water and acid based
cleaners if you have a natural brown or glossy shine copper sink as
they tend to develop spotting. In case your area has hard water,
always wipe your sink every after use with a soft cloth so that
spots would not develop. If your sink comes in contact with
chemicals or acidic debris, a bright spot will likely remain which
can be cleaned with soap and water, but will only be completely
removed in time when the sink completely recovers its patina.
Wood Sinks
Wood sinks are usually coated with natural varnish which creates the
barrier which separates the wood and the water. When cleaning your
wood sink, always use a mild, anti-bacterial liquid soap and a
sponge to clean your sink. Never use harsh chemicals, abrasives,
scouring sponges or bleach to wipe the surface. It is also best to
avoid running extremely hot liquids into the sink surface.
