HOW TO CLEAN A KITCHEN SINK

You use your kitchen sink to wash fresh produce, fill a pot to boil pasta and clean up after experimenting on new recipes. Keeping your sink clean helps you remain prepared for your next creation. Use this guide to learn how to clean different types of kitchen sinks to keep them looking fresh.

HOW TO CLEAN A STAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN SINK

A stainless steel kitchen sink gives your kitchen a sleek, modern feel. Read on below to learn how to clean a stainless steel kitchen sink to keep it looking its best.

STEP 1: DETERMINE GRAIN DIRECTION

Regardless of which cleaning product you’re using, stainless steel needs to be cleaned in the direction of the grain to prevent streaks, scratches or other marks. You can find your sink’s grain by looking closely at the metal for horizontal or vertical lines.

STEP 2: REMOVE CRUMBS OR OTHER FOOD RESIDUE

In the direction of the sink’s grain, wipe away crumbs, food spills or other residue with a damp microfiber towel.

STEP 3: CLEAN THE SINK

Clean your kitchen sink using soap and water or stainless steel cleaner/brightener. If you’re using soap and water, dip a clean cloth or sponge in a mixture of one teaspoon dish soap and one quart water. Wipe the damp, soapy sponge all around your sink in the direction of the grain, then rinse the suds away with water.

If you choose a stainless steel cleaner or brightener, apply the solution in an ‘S’ shape, then wipe it away in the direction of the grain with a dry microfiber towel. 

Affresh^® stainless steel brightener clears away rust, heat discoloration and yellowing from stainless steel surfaces to help restore your stainless steel to a bright shine.

HOW TO CLEAN A PORCELAIN KITCHEN SINK

Porcelain sinks can be found in traditional and modern kitchens. If you have a porcelain kitchen sink, use the following guide to learn how to clean it.

STEP 1: TREAT ANY RUST STAINS

Porcelain can be vulnerable to rust, but you may be able to remove rust stains while protecting the glossy finish of your sink. If your kitchen sink has rust stains, sprinkle salt on half a lemon and gently scrub the rust away before cleaning the rest of the sink.

STEP 2: CLEAN AND RINSE THE SINK

Dip a clean cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe down your kitchen sink. Use the faucet to rinse soap residue away with warm water.

STEP 3: DRY THE SINK SURFACE

Prevent water spots by drying your sink with a clean, dry microfiber towel.

HOW TO CLEAN A COPPER KITCHEN SINK

Copper sinks are beautiful and unique looking, but may need to be washed more frequently than other types of sinks to prevent damage to the metal. Read on below to learn how to clean a copper kitchen sink.

STEP 1: RINSE OUT THE SINK

Rinse away any food particles or residue from the base of your sink with warm or hot water.

STEP 2: CLEAN WITH SOAP AND WATER

Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the inside of your copper kitchen sink with soap and warm water. 

STEP 3: CLEAN SINK RIM

Be mindful of the rim of the sink as food can get trapped there and cause damage to the finish.

STEP 4: RINSE AND DRY

Use warm or hot water to rinse away any remaining suds or soap residue, then dry using a clean microfiber towel.

WHY SHOULD YOU CLEAN YOUR KITCHEN SINK?

Your kitchen sink comes in contact with a variety of ingredients that can leave behind residue and bacteria. Regularly cleaning your kitchen sink can help prevent food particles and juices from building up and creating an unpleasant odor.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CLEAN YOUR KITCHEN SINK?

It is typically recommended to wash your sink weekly, however your cleaning schedule may vary depending on how you use your sink and the type of ingredients you typically work with.

If you frequently prepare raw meats, dairy or fish, you may need to clean the sink more often. A copper sink should be cleaned daily.

SHOP AFFRESH^® KITCHEN CLEANERS

Your kitchen appliances help you create new recipes whenever inspiration strikes, and affresh^® kitchen cleaners¹ can help you keep your creative space clean and sparkling. Browse the entire line of easy-to-use cleaning products to keep your culinary tools looking their best.

_{1. affresh^® brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.}