Hopefully you already know not to use a steel wool pad. But how do you clean a stainless steel sink?
First of all, if it’s called “stainless steel”, how come it stains? According to StainlessSteelSinks, Stainless steel must be cleaned to keep it looking beautiful and to maintain its ability to resist corrosion. The beautiful surface of Stainless steel is protected from corrosion by a thin layer of chromium oxide. Oxygen from the atmosphere combines with the chromium in the stainless steel to form this passive chromium oxide film that protects the Stainless steel surface from further corrosion. When the surface is contaminated by dirt, sand, or other materials, this passivation process is hindered and corrosive agents are trapped, allowing corrosion to occur
Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve the appearance and integrity of the surface. Stainless steel is easily cleaned by many different methods. The surface will actually thrive with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
So how do you clean the sink? From eHow:
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Place the stopper in the drain. Squirt a few drops of liquid dishwashing detergent in the sink as you fill it about halfway with warm water.
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Dip a nylon scrubbing-brush or pad into the water and clean all the surfaces of the sink. Always scrub with the grain of the stainless steel to help prevent any marring or scratches.
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Empty the water from the sink and use the scrubbing-brush or pad to clean the drain and the stopper. Rinse with water.
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Sprinkle baking soda onto the sink surface if any staining remains. With a sponge, scrub the baking soda over all the surfaces, using a light touch and rubbing with the grain. Rinse the baking soda away.
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Rub baby oil or the juice from a lemon onto the sides and bottom of the sink for an extra shine.
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