How to clean chemical stains from stainless steel kitchen sinks?
Stainless steel is a metal alloy of steel, chromium, iron, silicon, carbon and aluminum. Apart from that, it
contains nickel and molybdenum as well. Due to all these elements, you have a rust-resistant, durable
and high-quality material that is widely used for domestic and industrial uses alike. The amount of
chromium determines the stainless steel’s corrosion resistance, but it develops a thin layer of chromium
oxide when it comes in touch with air. Over time, the protective wears away, which exposes the
underlying stainless steel.
In most cases, stainless steel sinks have fingerprints, watermarks, acid stains, chemical stains and
smudges. They take away the naturally bright appearance of the stainless steel, leaving behind a dull
look. As time goes by, the chromium oxide layer keeps breaking down and lead to corrosion, pitting,
calcium deposits, rusting, black residue, heat tints, chemical and bleach stains.
What are chemical stains?
Chemical stains on stainless steel sinks are caused by acidic chemicals, such as chloride, hydrogen and
hydrogen sulfide that cause the barrier to slowly crack. Metal polishers, vinegars and citrus juices
damage steel along with other acid-based household cleaners. When these products come in contact
with the stainless steel kitchen sink, the best stainless steel sinks brand in India guide you on caring for
them. Before cleaning them, wear a mask and gloves to protect your skin from possible chemical
reactions.
How can you clean chemical stains on stainless steel kitchen sinks?
The best stainless steel kitchen sinks brands recommend using a paste of detergent and baking soda to
remove fresh and old chemical stains. Apply the mixture to the stains and scrub with an old toothbrush
or nylon scrubber, then remove it with a soft cloth and wash the sink with warm water. Finally, wipe off
the stain and paste residue with a paper towel.
Pour boiling down the sink using a spout, place paper towels over the stains and pour more boiling
water on it. Wait for about ten minutes to let the area cool down, and rub off the stains with paper
towels or soft cloth.
For tough stains, apply water and ammonia on the stains for twenty minutes. Alternatively, spray
vinegar on the stained areas and let it work for ten minutes. Next, wipe off the cleaning product with a
soft cloth, towel or paper. Alternatively, use stainless steel cleaners and polished to wipe off chemical
stains without excessive scratching. Always use non-abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloth to buff out
scratches on stainless steel sink. For heavier scratches, choose coarse-grit sandpaper to rub it over the
scratches following the grain’s direction.
How to make your stainless steel kitchen sinks sparkle?
Stainless steel sink suppliers in India recommend buffing the sink after cleaning, such as by using
stainless steel polish and silicone-based sprays. Alternatively, use olive oil, lemon oil or mineral oil. Apply
the buffing product to a clean and dry cloth and wipe it along the grain of the stainless steel.
To prevent chemical stains, never use chlorine and bleach-based products on stainless steel. Rinse your
sink after each use as dish liquids contain chlorides, but avoid abrasive cleaners. Never use steel wood,
wire brushes and other harsh cleaning tools to scrub the sink. Finally, avoid scrubbing against the grain
of the stainless steel.