You have a stainless steel sink, and you know how great it looks when it’s new and shiny. But over time, scratches appear, and your sink looks worn out. Don’t worry—removing those scratches is easier than you think. In this post, we’ll show you how to remove scratches from stainless steel sinks.
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Why do stainless steel sinks get scratched?
Before we get to the solutions, let’s talk about why scratches happen. Stainless steel sinks are tough, but they can still get scratched. Everyday use, like washing dishes or using abrasive cleaning tools, can leave marks. Even small, sharp objects or rough sponges can cause tiny scratches.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Baking soda: This common kitchen item is a gentle abrasive that can buff out scratches.
- White vinegar: This will clean and shine your sink.
- Non-Abrasive Cleaner: Look for a cleaner that is safe for stainless steel.
- Soft Cloths: Use these to wipe and buff the sink.
- Fine Sandpaper (optional): For deeper scratches, you may need sandpaper with a fine grit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Scratches
1. Clean your sink first.
Before you start fixing scratches, clean your sink thoroughly. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth. This will remove dirt and grime that may get in the way. Rinse well and dry the sink with a clean towel.
2. Identify the scratch.
3. Baking soda for light scratches
- Make a Paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste. Apply the paste to the scratched area with a soft cloth.
- Buff Gently: Rub the paste in a circular motion over the scratch. This will smooth out the scratch without damaging the sink.
- Rinse and Dry: Once you’ve finished buffing, rinse the sink with water and dry with a clean cloth.
4. Shine with White Vinegar
After removing the scratches, it’s a good idea to shine your sink. White vinegar is perfect for this.
- Apply Vinegar: Pour a little white vinegar onto a clean cloth.
- Wipe the Sink: Rub the vinegar over the entire sink. This will remove any remaining residue and shine.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the sink with water and dry it with a clean towel.
5. Sandpaper for deeper scratches
If the scratches are deeper, fine sandpaper can help.
- Choose the Right Grit: Use sandpaper with a fine grit (400 grit). This will smooth out deeper scratches without creating new ones.
- Wet Sanding: Wet the sandpaper and the scratched area with water. This will reduce friction and prevent scratches from getting worse.
- Sand Gently: Sand the scratched area lightly, always following the direction of the grain of the stainless steel. Don’t sand across the grain, as this will create more visible scratches.
- Clean and Shine: After sanding, clean the sink with a non-abrasive cleaner, then use vinegar to shine it up.
How to Prevent Future Scratches
- Soft Sponges: Don’t use rough or abrasive sponges. Use soft, non-abrasive sponges for cleaning.
- Rinse Immediately: Rinse your sink after use to prevent residue from drying and scratching.
- Sink Mats: Consider using sink mats or liners to protect the surface from scratching from pots, pans, or utensils.
- Harsh Cleaners: Avoid cleaners that contain chlorine or bleach, as they can damage the stainless steel.
Conclusion
Removing scratches from your stainless steel sink isn’t hard. With a few simple tools and techniques, you can get your sink looking shiny and new again. Start with baking soda for light scratches, fine sandpaper for deeper ones, and finish with a good shine with white vinegar. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your sink looking great for years to come. Here’s how to remove scratches from stainless steel sinks.