Clean Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is one of the hardest surfaces in existence to keep looking clean. The problem with stainless steel is that it isn't stainless - it is simply that when it came into existence it was found to stain less than steel in a non-compounded form. Stainless steel surfaces will, no matter how hard you try, gain water-marks, streak and start having the cloudy 'used' look. So how do you clean these poor suckers to make them look their best?

Let's go through it just one step at a time:

Clutter Cleared

The very first thing to do is clear your sink of dishes. Can I be so bold as to suggest that rather than push them aside you make sure they make it into the dishwasher or simple get washed there and then? If operate your home without a dishwasher, then it would pay to have somewhere to stash your drying rack when it's not in use. However, be sure to clean your drying rack thoroughly before you pack it away. Whilst you are there, also grab your plugs, sink strainers as well as other cleaning implements and throw them in some sterilising solution. If you do not have sterilising solution then disinfectant will be equally effective but be sure to rinse the items off well afterwards.

Clean the Sink

Using hot water, thoroughly clean the sink using dish washing liquid. Be sure to remove all food stains and bin any scraps that accumulate in the bottom the sink in the process. For stubborn marks you may wish to use a non-scratch scouring pad or a pair of old stockings. Rinse the sink really well. From here you want to get the sink clean and simultaneously avoid abrasives that will damage the sink and make it prone to looking more worn. Instead, we are going to focus on protecting your sink in the process.

Deep Cleaning

One of the scary things I find in the use of other instructions for this task is how many people recommend the use of household cleansing agents in the sink. Firstly, many of the cleansing agents that you can purchase are abrasives that will, over time, eat away at the surface of the sink. In addition to that, many contain chemicals that are harmful to humans, especially if ingested. If you feel that you do need something to more intensely clean your sink then please use one of the household cleaner recipes which you can make from scratch knowing exactly what is in it for the safety of your household members.

If you decide your sink needs a deep clean, then rub the sink over with bi-carbonate soda and then spray with 100% vinegar. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a tea towel when complete.

Edge Cleaning

Secondly, taking a sharp edge to clean around the rim of the sink can start the process for major damage. When a sink is installed the edge has a lining. More modern high-quality sinks have a rubber lining that it sits upon and others will have a form of sealant glue. Both of these act as a method to prevent the build up of bacteria around and under the sink edge as well as stopping moisture from getting into the bench and cupboard below.

Instead, to clean the edge of your sink you can use bicarbonate of soda as per the deep cleaning and then take a non-scratch scourer or cloth, doused with vinegar, to thoroughly clean around the edge. If you need to work with more fine detail then grab an old toothbrush and undertake the same process again. Rinse thoroughly when complete and dry with a tea towel when complete.

Tap Fittings

Use a non-scratch scourer and old toothbrush to clean main exposed surfaces of the tap knobs and tap. To get into the harder locations around the tap knobs and tap grab and old pair of stockings and wrap around half around the taps and pull from side to side in a 'flossing your teeth' sort of action. Then, approach the taps from a different angle and repeat working your way around it. You can also apply bicarbonate of soda first if you feel it's needed and wet the stocking with vinegar getting a deep clean around those tight spots. Rinse thoroughly when complete and dry with a tea towel when complete.

Picture Perfect

If you are particularly house-proud and want to make you sink look it's absolute best then you may wish to add a protective coating to your sink. If you choose to take this option it is important to understand that any treated surface will require more upkeep to keep it looking that way. In terms of safe protective coatings you can utilise a natural wax, like beeswax, or a natural oil, like olive or a citrus oil, to add that protective coat. When selecting an oil to protect stainless steel in a food area, be sure to select one that is derived from edible product so you are not putting anyone's health at risk.

Prevention - better than cure

A quick trick to keeping the sink looking clean for longer is to make sure you thoroughly dry it each time you use it. Make sure you bring out a clean tea towel in your kitchen each day to keep the sink looking gorgeous. You can do the same with an old nappy square or hand towel in the laundry or bathroom. Changing your cloth regularly, daily in the kitchen, also means one less moist area for breeding bacteria - that can only be a good thing!