How to Fix Scratches and Discoloration on a Plastic Sink

Plastic, or fiberglass, sinks can develop a dull surface over time. The dullness typically occurs from mineral stain buildup caused by hard water and cleaning detergents. Staining may also occur as the porous plastic absorbs food and beverage stains. Removing the stains and dullness correctly ensures the plastic surface looks good but doesn't cause etching or scratches on the sink interior. Scratches, no matter how small, make staining worse as they allow dirt residue to work deeper into the plastic.

Baking soda
Cleaning rags
Paper towels
Household bleach
Plastic gel coating

Instructions

- 1
  Rinse the interior of the sink with hot water. Sprinkle a thin coating of baking soda over the entire surface of the sink. Allow it to sit for five minutes.
- 2
  Scrub the sink with a wet cloth. The mild abrasives in the baking soda remove buildup mineral deposits and dirt without scratching the sink surface. Rinse the sink out.
- 3
  Cover stained areas with a double layer of paper towels. Sprinkle household bleach onto the towels until they are saturated. Soak the stains with the bleach-soaked towels for five to 10 minutes.
- 4
  Wipe out the sink with the towels. Dispose of the towels and rinse out the sink.
- 5
  Apply a gel coat product to the interior of the sink per the packaging instructions. These products leave behind a protective coating on plastic and fiberglass surfaces that helps them resist staining and fills in small scratches. You can find gel coat products at hardware and home improvement stores.

Repairing and Polishing Tarnished Brass

How to Clean Dust & Dirt From an Air Jetted Hot Tub

House Cleaning