How to Prevent Metal Sinks From Rusting

Metal appliances and sinks such as stainless steel are standard in most houses these days. Preventing rust from acquiring on your sink is simple and will make your sink stay as beautiful as the day it was first installed. Follow a few simple steps and your sink will stay looking as good as new for years to come.

• Ensure that your sink is cleaned completely after installation so that no small particles are left behind on the surface. Fine metal particles can settle on the sink during installation and cause erosion of the protective coating.


• Never leave cast iron pots or skillets in your metal sink, these particles can break down and attach to the coating on the sink, which can break it down and cause rust to form over time.


• Never use steel wool cleaners such as SOS pads to clean your sink. These can also break down the protective coating that keeps your sink from acquiring unsightly rust.


• Never use abrasive cleaners such as soft scrub or Ajax to clean your metal sink, these can also break down the protective surface and cause rust to form over time.


• Always dry your sink when you are done using it, rust is the result of moisture that has found its way past the protective coating on your sink. 


• Thoroughly rinse all cleaners from your sink, as they can breakdown the protective coating over time.


• Clean your sink regularly with vinegar and baking soda to remove any metal particles left behind, this will increase the longevity of the protective coating on your sink. Spray the surface down with vinegar in a spray bottle and allow to sit a few minutes, then scrub down with baking soda on a sponge or toothbrush. This natural cleaner will remove any particles that you can’t see, as well as sanitize your sink.


• Always dry your sink thoroughly after each cleaning and each use to prevent rust from forming.