A stainless steel sink is a central part of any modern kitchen, known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and sleek appearance. However, after years of daily use, even high-quality sinks can develop scratches, dull spots, or hard-water stains. The good news is that stainless steel can be restored to its original brilliance with proper care and the right techniques.
In this article, Shunhan Kitchen & Bath Technology Co., Ltd. — a leading stainless steel sink manufacturer — shares expert methods for bringing your sink back to life.
Before you begin restoration, identify your sink’s surface finish. This helps you select the best cleaning tools and prevent further damage.
| Finish Type | Description | Restoration Note |
|---|---|---|
| Brushed Finish | Fine, linear texture with matte appearance | Always polish in the direction of the grain |
| Satin Finish | Smooth and slightly reflective | Use mild abrasives only |
| Mirror Finish | High gloss and fully reflective | Requires gentle polishing to avoid swirls |
Most Shunhan sinks use SUS304 stainless steel with brushed or satin finishes for a professional, easy-to-maintain look.
Before addressing scratches or stains, remove all grease and residue.
Step 1 – Rinse:
Use warm water to loosen surface debris and food particles.
Step 2 – Wash:
Apply mild dish soap with a soft sponge or cloth. Clean the entire basin, corners, and edges.
Step 3 – Rinse Again:
Thoroughly rinse off the soap and wipe the sink dry with a microfiber towel.
Step 4 – Inspect:
Look closely under good lighting to locate dull areas, spots, and fine scratches.
Water spots and calcium buildup can make the surface appear aged. To fix this:
Vinegar Treatment: Spray white vinegar evenly across the sink and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. The mild acid dissolves mineral deposits effectively.
Baking Soda Scrub: For tougher stains, sprinkle baking soda onto a damp surface and gently scrub along the grain with a soft sponge.
Rinse and Dry: Always rinse with clean water and dry immediately to prevent new marks.
These two household ingredients are safe, eco-friendly, and suitable for 304 stainless steel sinks.
Fine scratches are common after years of use, especially near the drain or where heavy pots are placed. To restore smoothness:
Clean the Sink First: Ensure no grit remains.
Use a Non-Abrasive Pad: Choose a soft nylon or microfiber pad. Avoid steel wool.
Apply Stainless Steel Cleaner or Baking Soda Paste: Gently rub in the same direction as the grain.
Polish: Continue until scratches blend with the surrounding surface.
Wipe and Dry: Rinse away residue and buff dry with a microfiber cloth.
If the scratches are deeper, use a commercial stainless steel restoration kit, following the manufacturer’s steps carefully.
Once stains and scratches are removed, the next step is polishing. This not only enhances appearance but also strengthens surface protection.
Use Olive Oil or Mineral Oil: Apply a few drops to a soft cloth and rub along the grain.
Use Professional Stainless Steel Polish: Ideal for commercial kitchens or frequently used sinks.
Buff Thoroughly: Keep polishing until the surface becomes evenly glossy.
Final Rinse: Wipe off excess oil and rinse lightly for a natural finish.
Shunhan sinks, made with precision brushing and automated forming technology, are engineered for easy restoration and long-term brightness.
After restoration, proper maintenance ensures your sink remains bright and spotless.
Wipe Dry After Use: Prevents mineral deposits and water marks.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach or chlorine can damage the protective film.
Use a Sink Grid: Protects the bottom from heavy cookware scratches.
Clean Weekly: Use baking soda and vinegar for deep cleaning every 7–10 days.
Polish Monthly: Light polishing keeps the surface smooth and fingerprint-free.
Following these habits can help maintain the same polished look as a brand-new sink.
Shunhan Kitchen & Bath Technology Co., Ltd., located in Jiangmen, Guangdong, is a professional manufacturer of stainless steel sinks offering OEM and ODM customization. Each sink is made with premium SUS304 stainless steel, providing high corrosion resistance, hygiene, and easy maintenance.
Our advantages include:
Advanced CNC forming and precision brushing equipment
Full product range: Top Mount, Undermount, Apron Front, Bar, and Rv Sinks
Customizable shapes, sizes, and finishes
Strict quality control with global export standards
Whether for residential kitchens, commercial projects, or custom builds, Shunhan delivers durable and easy-to-restore sinks for every market.
Restoring a stainless steel sink doesn’t require professional tools — just patience, the right materials, and correct technique. Regular maintenance with baking soda, vinegar, and mild polish can bring back the same shine your sink had on installation day.
For long-lasting quality and easy restoration, choose Shunhan stainless steel sinks — designed for durability, style, and effortless maintenance.
