How to clean a stainless steel sink – 5 steps to a streak-free shine

It’s such a hard-working part of your kitchen, it‘s no wonder knowing how to clean a stainless steel sink thoroughly is important – both for hygiene and to keep it looking its best.

Despite its name, stainless steel can become stained over time, as well as accumulate limescale, so it loses its sparkle and looks grimy. And with all manner of liquids and more going down the drain, regular cleaning is a must to keep up kitchen hygiene.

These cleaning tips for a sink made from stainless steel will restore its good looks and make it fresh while caring for the material.

How to clean a stainless steel sink

A kitchen cleaning checklist should always include a stainless steel sink so it remains pristine. Stainless steel’s name refers to the fact that it resists corrosion, but it can definitely become stained, and limescale can build up, too, plus like any kitchen surface, you’ll want it hygienic. The method for making it so is a little different from that for cleaning stainless steel appliances, and here’s how to clean a stainless steel sink. 

1. Rinse a stainless steel sink

A stainless steel sink is no exception to the rules for cleaning a kitchen sink and needs to be free of any food debris before you begin to clean it. Stainless steel resists the growth of bacteria and mold, but it does need to be cleaned of any food scraps for good hygiene – and it’s also worth doing because these will attract pests to the kitchen. 

Likewise any grit needs to be removed from the sink. Start cleaning with this in situ and you run the risk of scratching the stainless steel surface.

Make sure any scraps are cleared from the sink drain, too.

2. Use a sponge and dish soap

Using dish soap is an effective way to clean a stainless steel sink. You’ll also need an anti-scratch sponge. ‘Never use wire wool or an abrasive pad to clean a stainless steel sink,’ says Lucy Searle, global editor in chief of Homes & Gardens. ‘These can scratch the material.’ Apply the dish soap solution with a sponge to clean, then rinse.

As an alternative to dish soap, a general purpose kitchen cleaner can do the job – but check it is suitable for use on the material – or a special stainless steel cleaner. We like Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish from Amazon. Use any product according to instructions, which may include leaving it to work before using a cloth or sponge.

3. Remove stains from a stainless steel sink

If dish soap or your chosen cleaning product hasn’t removed the stains on a stainless steel sink, baking soda can come to the rescue. Sprinkle onto a damp sink then use a non-scratch cloth or sponge to tackle the stains. Follow the grain of the stainless steel as you work, and rinse thoroughly when you’re done.

4. Remove limescale from a stainless steel sink

If you live in a hard water area, limescale deposits can build up on a stainless steel sink, compromising its appearance. Look to pantry ingredients to get rid of it: a stainless steel sink is one of the things you can clean with vinegar.

Use a spray bottle to apply a 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and water, leave for a minute or two, then wipe and rinse; do not leave it longer because the vinegar may damage the stainless steel over time. 

‘It’s worth rinsing and drying the sink every time you use it to prevent the buildup of limescale,’ says Lucy Searle.

You can use this method to remove rust from stainless steel, too.

5. Alternative ways to clean a stainless steel sink

For a clean and shiny stainless steel sink, you might want to check out these tips from Jessica Samson, cleaning expert at The Maids.

Club soda Simply fill a spray bottle full of club soda and spray down the sink. Be sure to wipe dry with a microfiber cloth and always wipe in the direction of the grain of the sink.

Vinegar and oil Put some vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray down your sink. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe in the direction of the grain and clean the sink. Rinse well. When it is clean and streak free, take the cloth and dip it in olive oil or baby oil. Wipe the sink down in the direction of the grain with the oil. This will add a protective shine to your sink and stainless steel.

Dish soap and oil Mix up a small amount of dish soap and warm water. Apply the solution to the sink with the spray bottle and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. Always wipe in the direction of the grain and finish the sink off with some oil to add a protective shine to your sink. This will leave it sparkling clean.

What is the best cleaner for stainless steel sinks?

Dish soap is a great cleaner for stainless steel sinks, and one you’ll already have to hand. If you prefer to use a specialist product, Sara San Angelo aka The Cleaning Lady says, ‘Bar Keeper’s Friend is the best thing I've used to clean stainless steel sinks. It is non-abrasive and will not harm the finish.  And your sink will shine like new!’

What will damage stainless steel?

Steel wool, scrubbing brushes and abrasive sponges can all damage stainless steel. Avoid abrasive cleaners, too. Never use bleach or a cleaner with chlorine either and, for the record, don’t use oven cleaner on a stainless steel sink. Make sure to work with the grain, too, rather than across it.