Cleaning Your Unique Sink

Sinks are workhorses in your home, whether in the kitchen or the bathroom. Use for cleaning all sorts of items from dishes to hands to veggies. Given the job they do in your home, it is important to keep them in tiptop condition. Sinks, of all shapes, size, and materials, should be cleaned, dried, and shined on a daily basis. But, did you know, depending on your sink material, there are some specific cleaning rules which apply. The Signature Maids have prepared this handy checklist to help you keep your sinks looking great, while doing their job well.

Acrylic Sinks

These colorful, yet inexpensive sinks, are stain resistant if cleaned regularly, but are not impervious to scratches and shine loss. You should not use heavy abrasives or pads, hard bristle brushes or apply too much pressure while cleaning. Instead, fill you acrylic sink with a weak bleach solution and soak, rubbing away stains with a soft cloth.

Aluminum Sinks

Aluminum sinks should be cleaned with your favorite mild dish detergent on a regular basis. Bleach is a no-no for aluminum as it can cause discoloration. Borax is the ideal choice for stain removal in your aluminum sink.

Copper Sinks

Copper sinks require a pH neutral soap for cleaning, and they should be wiped and dried after each use to avoid staining. Copper is antimicrobial, but susceptible to acids like those in harsh cleaners and acidic foods. Avoid the use of lime, ammonia, and rust removers in your copper sink. Periodic waxing will help your copper sink maintain its beautiful patina.

Enamel Cast Iron Sinks

Enamel cast iron sinks are beautiful with their glossy finishes, but they are not impervious to stains and damage. Your sink should be cleaned according to the rules for porcelain, but rinsed and dried after every use. You’ll also want to take care when using heavy pots, pans, and serving pieces as enamel is easily chipped.

Granite and Granite Composite Sinks

Granite sinks are sealed for extra protection, but even so they need to be cleaned, wiped, and dried regularly to maintain their good looks. Don’t use acidic, alkaline, or abrasive solutions on your granite sinks. Always rinse and dry thoroughly to avoid staining. Like copper sinks, you shouldn’t allow acidic foods to sit too long in your granite sink. Mineral oil can protect your granite from water stains and as with granite countertops, your granite sink will need to be re-sealed regularly. Granite composite, which combines granite, acrylic, and pressed granite stone dust to make stronger surface, can still be susceptible to streaking and dulling. Don’t use ammonia or abrasives on your granite composite, instead, try soaking stains in a mixture of white vinegar and water or baking soda paste.

Porcelain Sinks

To protect the finish on your porcelain sink, you should avoid abrasive solutions, bleaches, and all harsh cleaners. If your porcelain sink is stained, you’ll want to soak the stain first in your favorite dish detergent, and follow with a baking soda past and water. If your stain remains, consider investing in a special porcelain cleaning solution to get rid of it. White vinegar will remove calcium deposits. And remember, don’t pour boiling water or set hot pots and pans in your porcelain sink, as it can cause irreparable damage.

Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks are popular because they are easy to care for and less expensive than other options. Even so, stainless steel sinks are prone to scratching. You can use a mild abrasive with lots of hot water and a soft cloth to clean your stainless steel sink. If you prefer an abrasive with bleach, always rinse your sink thoroughly after using it.

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