Over time, even the best stainless steel sinks can develop scratches, dullness, or stains from daily use. Refinishing your stainless steel sink is an excellent way to restore its original shine, smoothness, and professional look without needing a replacement. With the right tools, products, and patience, you can make your sink look brand new again.
Refinishing is recommended when you notice:
Visible scratches or scuffs from utensils or metal pans.
Loss of shine due to hard water, soap film, or oxidation.
Minor rust spots or discoloration around the drain or edges.
Uneven finish caused by years of cleaning with abrasives.
If your sink is structurally sound and free of deep dents, refinishing can restore both appearance and hygiene at a fraction of the replacement cost.
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Cleaning Supplies | Dish soap, warm water, microfiber cloths, sponge |
| Polishing Tools | Non-abrasive scrub pad, sandpaper (400–2000 grit), buffing pad or orbital polisher |
| Refinishing Materials | Stainless steel polish or metal restoration compound |
| Optional Add-ons | Baking soda, white vinegar, olive oil or mineral oil |
| Safety Equipment | Gloves, safety glasses, mask |
Avoid steel wool or harsh abrasives — they can cause deep scratches that ruin the final polish.
Wash the entire sink using warm water and mild dish soap.
Remove grease, grime, and old residue completely.
Rinse and dry with a clean microfiber towel.
If there are white spots or hard water stains:
Spray equal parts vinegar and water on affected areas.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Wipe clean and rinse thoroughly.
A spotless surface ensures the refinishing compounds adhere evenly.
The goal is to smooth out imperfections and create a uniform surface before polishing.
Every stainless steel sink has a visible brushed grain. Always sand and polish along the grain, never across it.
Wet the sandpaper slightly with water.
Rub gently along the grain to remove scratches and stains.
Use light pressure — you’re not trying to strip the surface, only smooth it.
Move up to finer sandpaper for a smoother, more reflective finish.
Keep the surface moist to prevent overheating.
Continue until the surface feels uniformly smooth to the touch.
For deep scratches, start with 320-grit and gradually move to finer grades.
After sanding, you’ll bring back the mirror or brushed finish.
Use a small amount of stainless steel restoration compound or polishing paste.
Spread evenly with a microfiber cloth or buffing pad.
Use an orbital polisher on low speed, or polish by hand using circular motions along the grain.
Continue until the sink regains a consistent, even sheen.
Wipe away any residue with a clean microfiber towel.
Inspect the sink under light to ensure uniform results.
Shunhan sinks, crafted from premium 304 stainless steel, can be polished multiple times without losing their structural integrity.
Mix baking soda and water into a smooth paste.
Rub gently across the sink with a soft sponge.
Rinse and dry — this adds mild shine and deodorizes.
Apply a few drops of olive oil or mineral oil to a clean cloth.
Buff the surface lightly along the grain.
This leaves a hydrophobic coating that resists fingerprints and water spots.
To keep your newly refinished sink looking like new:
Rinse and dry after each use.
Avoid leaving wet sponges or metal utensils in the basin.
Clean weekly with vinegar or mild detergent.
Reapply a light coat of stainless steel polish every few months.
Regular maintenance extends the life of your refinished surface and keeps it shining like a showroom sink.
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Using steel wool or coarse abrasives | Deep, permanent scratches |
| Sanding against the grain | Visible swirl marks |
| Skipping fine-grit polishing | Uneven or dull surface |
| Using chlorine-based cleaners | Corrosion or discoloration |
| Neglecting to dry after cleaning | Water spots and mineral buildup |
Avoiding these ensures the refinished surface remains smooth, reflective, and easy to clean.
