Tips on Cleaning Sinks

Rinse Regularly

• Over the course of a day, plenty of food, oil, grease and other liquids pass through your kitchen sink. The acids and salt in some of these substances can actually damage the sink's finish, particularly if it's made of stainless steel. To avoid pitting and other damage to the sink, rinse it after each use so food and other substances don't sit on the surface for prolonged periods. Since your bathroom sink isn't subject to the same type of harsh use that the kitchen sink is, you don't necessarily need to rinse it after each use. Typically, rinsing once a day is sufficient to keep it free of stains.

Be Gentle

• Whether you're cleaning a stainless, porcelain or solid surface sink, you're better off going easy on the surface if you want to avoid scratches, stains and other damage. Avoid scouring powders, ammonia, bleach, coarse sponges and other abrasive cleaning products that can ruin your sink's finish. Instead, use a mild dish detergent and a nylon sponge or soft cloth to clean your sink on a daily basis. You can also mix baking soda with warm water to form a paste to gently scrub off stubborn stains.

Get the Nooks and Crannies

• Sinks have some nooks and crannies that can easily harbor dirt and bacteria, but they can be somewhat difficult to clean. The best way to tackle these small, hard-to-reach spots is with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can cover the bristles with a mild soap or a paste made from baking soda and water and gently scrub areas like the caulk seal around the sink, faucets and handles, or the rubber flap for your garbage disposal. Rinse the area afterward and wipe it down with a rag. If residue appears on the rag, repeat the process until it comes clean.

Keep Drains Clean

• Your sink's drain can easily be overlooked when it comes to cleaning. However, if you don't clean your drain regularly, it can become clogged with residue and debris. To keep your drains clean, pour a half cup of baking soda down the sink and follow it with a half cup of vinegar. Plug the drain with an old rag and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. When the baking soda and vinegar combine, the mixture begins to bubble and foam so it can effectively clear the drain of residue. Next, pour a kettle full of boiling water down the sink to flush it completely. You can repeat this procedure periodically to keep your drains clear and free of clogs.