Reviving a Dull Stainless Steel Sink

Clean a dull stainless-steel sink with the maker’s approved cleaner and the direction of its grain. Flour polishing is not necessary, and rinsing flour into the drain adds a preventable mess.

Clean and dry

1. Confirm the sink is stainless steel, including whether it has a special coating. Empty it and rinse away loose debris.
2. Wash with mild soap and a soft cloth, following the grain. Rinse thoroughly.
3. For persistent marks, use a cleaner the sink maker permits and test a hidden spot first. Avoid steel wool, harsh abrasion, and mixing cleaners.
4. Rinse away all product and dry with a soft cloth so mineral spots do not immediately return.

Check the result

Inspect under normal light. Cleaning can remove film and water spots; it does not necessarily remove scratches. Do not grind or polish deeply to chase a mark without the maker’s refinishing guidance.

A rust-colored spot may come from an iron object left in the sink rather than the sink itself rusting. If a spot remains or the finish changes, stop and ask the manufacturer about the correct treatment. Wipe the sink dry regularly as practical.

Sources and scope

• Franke: stainless-steel sink care and demonstration

These references support the guidance above. Source review is not a hands-on test of your home or a certification of a product. Follow the instructions for your exact model and local requirements.