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TL;DR: To clean a stainless steel kitchen sink, wash daily with mild detergent, remove limescale with white vinegar, and polish with a microfibre cloth. Avoid harsh abrasives to maintain its shine.
If you are looking for the best way to how to clean stainless steel kitchen sink surfaces, we can help. With over 20 years of experience in the kitchen industry, we know exactly how to keep stainless steel sinks looking sleek and free from stains, scratches, and limescale.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink Without Damaging the Finish
Stainless steel is popular for its durability and modern look, but it can show water spots, streaks, and fingerprints. With regular care, you can keep your sink looking like new for years.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Rinse the sink with warm water and a small amount of washing-up liquid. Wipe with a soft cloth or sponge, then dry with a towel to prevent water spots. This approach works just as well for other materials, like ceramic, as covered in our how to clean ceramic sink guide.
Removing Limescale and Stains
In hard water areas, limescale can be a common issue. Apply a diluted white vinegar solution to affected areas, leave for a few minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly. For persistent staining, our how to remove tea stains from composite sink method using bicarbonate of soda also works on stainless steel.
Polishing for a Streak-Free Finish
To keep your sink shiny, buff it with a dry microfibre cloth after each use. For an extra polish, apply a small amount of olive oil or a specialist stainless steel cleaner. Our are black kitchen sinks hard to keep clean blog also covers polishing tips that apply across different sink materials.
Avoiding Damage and How to Clean Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
Never use steel wool or abrasive pads, as they can scratch the surface. Avoid leaving cast iron or metal pans in the sink for long periods, as they can cause rust marks. For overall sink hygiene, you might also want to read our how to remove smell from kitchen sink article.
Now you know how to clean stainless steel kitchen sink surfaces effectively, you can keep yours looking pristine and functioning well. If you are replacing or upgrading your sink, browse our full stainless steel sink collection.
For more external guidance, see the Good Housekeeping guide to cleaning stainless steel sinks.