The short answer is no — you should not use bleach on a stainless steel sink. While bleach is a powerful disinfectant, it can damage stainless steel surfaces, leading to corrosion, discoloration, and pitting. Stainless steel is durable, but its surface depends on a thin protective chromium oxide layer that can be chemically weakened by bleach exposure.
Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite, a strong oxidizing agent. When it contacts stainless steel:
It breaks down the chromium oxide film that protects the metal from rust.
Prolonged exposure can cause pitting and corrosion, especially around seams and edges.
It may leave rainbow-like discoloration or permanent dull patches.
Even when diluted, bleach can react with minerals in hard water and create chloride compounds that stain or damage the sink over time.
High-grade stainless steel, such as Shunhan’s SUS304 and SUS316, offers excellent resistance — but even these alloys can corrode if exposed to chlorine-based cleaners.
If bleach has already been used on your stainless steel sink, act quickly to neutralize and remove it before damage sets in.
Flush the sink thoroughly with warm water to wash away all traces of bleach.
Mix baking soda and water into a paste.
Apply to affected areas and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Gently rub along the steel grain using a soft cloth.
Rinse again and dry completely with a microfiber towel.
If you see dullness or light discoloration, polish the area with olive oil or stainless steel cleaner to restore the surface sheen.
If corrosion spots have already appeared, you may need to refinish the area with a fine-grit sanding pad or contact a professional.
There are safer, equally effective ways to sanitize and clean a stainless steel sink without harming it.
| Cleaner | How to Use | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| White vinegar | Spray diluted vinegar (1:1 with water) and wipe after 5–10 min. | Removes limescale and disinfects naturally. |
| Baking soda | Sprinkle over sink, scrub gently with a damp sponge. | Lifts stains and neutralizes odors. |
| Dish soap | Mix with warm water for everyday washing. | Safe for daily cleaning. |
| Hydrogen peroxide | Use a small amount for sanitizing. | Kills germs without corrosion. |
| Stainless steel cleaner | Apply with microfiber cloth weekly. | Polishes and protects the finish. |
These alternatives protect both the sink’s surface and your household health — no fumes, no chemical etching, and no metal degradation.
After each use, rinse the sink and wipe it dry. This prevents water spots and chemical buildup.
Sprinkle baking soda across the surface.
Spray with vinegar and let fizz for 5 minutes.
Scrub gently, rinse, and dry.
Buff with a few drops of mineral oil or stainless steel polish to maintain shine and repel water.
Shunhan stainless steel sinks feature anti-scratch brushed finishes that are easy to maintain without harsh chemicals.
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful |
|---|---|
| Using bleach or chlorine-based products | Corrodes surface and causes permanent stains. |
| Scrubbing with steel wool | Leaves iron particles that rust. |
| Leaving salt, vinegar, or acidic residue overnight | Can etch or discolor the surface. |
| Not drying after cleaning | Leads to water spots and mineral deposits. |
Even brief bleach exposure can trigger corrosion that appears days later — especially in areas with poor ventilation or trapped moisture.
For best results with Shunhan’s high-grade sinks:
Use mild dish soap and warm water for everyday cleaning.
Deep clean weekly using baking soda and vinegar.
Dry after every use to avoid water spots.
Polish monthly to maintain a uniform brushed finish.
Avoid all chlorine-based cleaners.
Shunhan’s sinks are engineered for easy maintenance — gentle care is all that’s needed to keep their premium appearance.
