A stainless steel sink is one of the most durable and hygienic choices for any kitchen, but it needs proper care to stay spotless and shiny. Daily use leaves behind water spots, grease, mineral deposits, and scratches, which can dull the surface over time. Fortunately, keeping your sink clean is easy with consistent care and the right techniques.
The most effective way to keep your sink clean is to prevent buildup before it starts.
Routine steps:
Rinse the sink with warm water after washing dishes.
Use a few drops of mild dish soap on a soft sponge.
Scrub lightly in the direction of the grain to remove food residue and grease.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Wipe dry with a microfiber towel or soft cloth.
Why this works:
Drying prevents water spots and mineral deposits, especially in areas with hard water. It also maintains the brushed or polished finish of the steel.
Shunhan sinks feature precision-brushed finishes designed to clean easily without aggressive scrubbing.
Even with daily care, oils and minerals can build up. A gentle deep clean once a week keeps the surface smooth and spotless.
How to clean with baking soda:
Wet the sink slightly.
Sprinkle baking soda evenly across the surface.
Scrub with a damp sponge or soft cloth along the grain.
Rinse with warm water.
Wipe dry completely.
Optional:
To disinfect and brighten, spray white vinegar over the baking soda before scrubbing. The fizzing reaction helps lift grime and dissolve limescale safely.
Once clean, a quick polish restores the natural luster and adds a protective barrier.
Polishing steps:
Apply a few drops of olive oil, mineral oil, or stainless steel polish to a microfiber cloth.
Buff gently in the direction of the grain.
Continue until the entire surface shines evenly.
Benefits:
Prevents fingerprints and streaks.
Repels water and soap residue.
Keeps the surface smooth, making future cleaning easier.
For Shunhan stainless steel sinks, polishing once every 1–2 weeks is enough to maintain a mirror-like appearance.
If you notice discoloration or light rust marks:
Mix baking soda and water into a paste.
Apply to the affected area.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
Rub gently with a soft sponge or nylon pad (never steel wool).
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Alternative: Use a soft cloth dampened with vinegar to lift mineral stains.
Even high-grade 304 stainless steel can show surface rust if minerals or salt residues are left overnight — cleaning regularly prevents this.
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful |
|---|---|
| Using steel wool or wire brushes | Scratches and embeds rust-prone iron particles. |
| Using bleach or chlorine-based cleaners | Corrodes the surface and causes pitting. |
| Leaving wet sponges, rags, or metal cookware in the sink | Traps moisture, leading to stains. |
| Letting salt or acidic foods sit overnight | May cause etching or discoloration. |
| Allowing hard water to air-dry | Creates mineral spots and streaks. |
Always clean and dry your sink at the end of the day — prevention is far easier than restoration.
Every month, perform a simple maintenance routine:
Rinse and dry as usual.
Polish with stainless steel cleaner or mineral oil.
Check sealants and edges for buildup.
Clean the drain and strainer to prevent odor.
If your sink has a brushed finish, polish only in the same direction as the lines. For satin or matte finishes, use non-abrasive cleaners only.
| Type | Example | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Mild dish soap | Any non-chlorine detergent | Daily cleaning |
| Baking soda | Natural abrasive | Removes stains, deodorizes |
| White vinegar | Natural acid | Dissolves limescale, disinfects |
| Mineral oil / olive oil | Protective layer | Adds shine, repels water |
| Microfiber cloths | Soft texture | Prevents scratches |
Shunhan sinks’ brushed stainless finish is compatible with all these non-abrasive cleaners.
Install a sink grid to protect the basin from heavy pots or pans.
Use filtered water if you live in a hard-water area.
Rinse after using cleaning chemicals nearby (like bleach or detergent).
Buff with vinegar and a cloth once a week for a natural, streak-free shine.
These steps preserve both the appearance and performance of your stainless steel sink for years.
