Yes, black stainless steel sinks can scratch, but the degree depends on the quality of the coating, surface treatment, and care routine. While black stainless steel sinks offer a striking, modern look, their dark finish makes any scratch more visible than on traditional silver stainless steel. However, with proper handling and maintenance, scratches can be minimized or even repaired.
Black stainless steel sinks are made from the same SUS304 or SUS316 stainless steel base, but their dark appearance comes from an added surface coating.
Common finishes include:
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating: A high-end, vacuum-applied finish that bonds with the metal for superior hardness and durability.
Electroplating or powder coating: Used in some budget models, but less scratch-resistant.
The key difference lies in how well the coating integrates with the steel beneath — PVD-coated sinks like Shunhan’s models provide significantly higher scratch resistance than standard painted or plated finishes.
All stainless steel can scratch under friction from metal utensils, cookware, or abrasive cleaning pads. However, black finishes highlight scratches more because the silver base metal contrasts with the dark coating.
Factors that influence scratching include:
Using metal scouring pads or steel wool.
Sliding heavy pots, pans, or cutlery in the basin.
Abrasive cleaning powders or harsh chemicals.
Lack of protective sink grid or rubber mat.
A high-quality black stainless steel sink won’t scratch easily during normal kitchen use — but careless cleaning or impact can damage the surface layer.
Premium manufacturers like Shunhan use PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) technology for their black stainless steel sinks.
Advantages of PVD coating:
Up to 10 times harder than electroplated finishes.
Resistant to corrosion, fingerprints, and wear.
Maintains deep color even after years of cleaning.
Environmentally friendly process with no toxic residues.
With PVD, the color isn’t just painted on — it becomes part of the metal’s surface at the molecular level, creating a durable, scratch-resistant layer.
Place a grid or mat at the bottom of the sink to protect against cookware impact.
Prevents direct contact between pots and the sink surface.
Allows water to drain freely while avoiding abrasion.
Use soft sponges or microfiber cloths for cleaning. If deep cleaning is needed, try baking soda paste or a non-scratch nylon pad.
Rinse the sink thoroughly after every use and wipe it dry. Standing debris or minerals can harden and cause micro-abrasions when scrubbed later.
Buff a small amount of stainless steel polish or mineral oil along the grain weekly. This creates a thin film that resists fingerprints and fine scratches.
Knives, forks, and hard tools can chip the black coating if dropped with force.
Minor scratches can often be buffed or concealed, depending on the finish type.
For PVD-coated sinks:
Use a non-abrasive stainless steel polish formulated for dark finishes.
Gently buff along the grain using a soft microfiber cloth.
Avoid deep sanding — it can remove the coating permanently.
For painted or powder-coated sinks:
Touch-up pens or kits may help cover small blemishes.
Recoating may be needed for large or deep scratches.
Always test cleaners or polishes in an inconspicuous area before applying them to the full surface.
Shunhan Sink specializes in PVD-coated black stainless steel sinks designed for both beauty and resilience.
Constructed from premium 304-grade stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
PVD nano-coating adds superior hardness and color depth.
Anti-scratch brushed finish minimizes visible wear.
Sound-deadening pads and anti-condensation coatings for quiet, dry performance.
These sinks are engineered for long-term durability, making them ideal for residential and commercial kitchens alike.
| Task | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Rinse & dry sink | After each use | Prevents water spots and mineral buildup |
| Clean with mild detergent | Weekly | Removes grease and residue |
| Buff with stainless polish | Monthly | Restores shine and protective layer |
| Avoid abrasive tools | Always | Prevents surface scratches |
Consistent care keeps the black finish smooth, glossy, and modern-looking.
