'I've found that stainless steel kitchen sinks are the easiest to maintain,' says professional cleaner Sara San Angelo, The Cleaning Lady. 'They are durable and easy to clean. Usually, you only need soap and water to clean them.
When a stainless steel sink looks dull, it's often because it's been scrubbed with cleanser that contains chlorine bleach, with a bleach-loaded scrub pad, or — worst of all — fine steel wool that comes pre-loaded with detergent and bleach.
Both top-mount and undermount models are available; undermount models ease cleanup because there is no lip to catch food and debris, but are usually more expensive. Stainless steel sinks also resist chipping and cracking, however, are likely to be scratched through everyday use and often show water spots.
In conclusion, while stainless steel sinks are durable and resistant to corrosion, they can become stained if pots or dishes are left sitting in the sink for too long. By following these tips and practicing regular maintenance, you can keep your stainless steel sink looking clean and stain-free for years to come.
Besides scratches, one other common problem of stainless steel sinks is water spot stains. Water spots are the harsh mineral-rich waters that are left dry on your stainless steel sink. These water spots may appear from time to time if you do not exercise preventive measures.
Conclusion: Vinegar can indeed damage your stainless steel surfaces if precautions aren't taken during its use.
While white farmhouse sinks are stunning, there are more durable kitchen sink materials out there. If you're concerned about cracks and stains, a stainless steel kitchen sink may be a better choice for your household. Stainless steel sinks are also one of the easiest sinks to keep clean.
Stainless Steel
Best for: Affordability, durability, and low maintenance. The most common option for a kitchen sink material is stainless steel.
A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches. What's more, they are also some of the most versatile sinks coming in a variety of styles and sizes meaning they fit in most kitchens easily no matter the size or style.
You may be tempted to use a paper towel but paper towels may scratch the surface of your stainless steel appliances. A microfiber cloth is softer and will produce a better result.
Use a clean, damp sponge or soft cloth. A mild abrasive cleaner such as *Cameo Stainless Steel Cleaner, or *Soft Scrub (without bleach) can be used, remembering to always wipe with the grain. More stubborn soils can be removed using a damp *Scotch-Brite pad. Be sure to rub evenly with the grain of the stainless steel.
If you prioritize style, sound absorption, and a luxurious look, a quartz sink might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you value durability, versatility, and a more affordable price point, a stainless steel sink could be the way to go.
They're Very Durable
Use your sink every day, as often as you need. Unlike other types of kitchen sinks, such as granite or stones, stainless steel sinks don't need annual care. With proper care, stainless steel sinks can last for 30 years or even longer. The finish won't chip off over time like cast iron sinks.
The Advantages of Stainless Steel
It is cheap and affordable for homeowners and builders – High-end stainless steel options will cost more; however, most stainless steel sinks are affordable and are just as high-quality as every other sink on the market – if not better.
Stainless steel sinks are very low maintenance; they are corrosion and rust resistant, and as long as they are cared for properly and wiped down after every use, they should not stain. Find out more about how to clean a stainless steel sink by reading our guide with handy tips and tricks from our experts.
Double Basin/Bowl Sink
The most popular type of kitchen sink arrangement, dual basins allow for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the easiest to clean because of their non-porous and stain-resistant surface.
The best color for a sink could be traditional white, multi-colored through to a statement black, including metallic finishes in silver, gold, and bronze. There is a huge selection of sink colors and shades to harmonize and blend with your existing bathroom, kitchen, and washroom color schemes.
The brushed texture can accumulate moisture within the grooves and limits the ability of fluid to bead on the material surface. For this reason, a polished satin finish is a wise choice for something like a kitchen sink or cabinet hardware. Whatever your design preference, the key is consistency.
Avoid using regular Windex on stainless steel, as the ammonia content can damage the material. Although it is possible to clean stainless steel with ammonia-free Windex, it is best not to take the chance because it is difficult to tell how a cleaner will react with stainless steel.
To easily clean off grease and food splatters from your stainless steel appliances, use a mixture of Dawn® Platinum and water, then rinse off and wipe dry.
Vinegar naturally disinfects while helping remove hard water stains from your stainless steel sink. Once your sink is clean and dry, you can easily add an extra shine. Apply a few drops of olive oil to a lint-free cloth to buff the sink and fixture until they sparkle.