How to Clean a Kitchen Sink (Stainless Steel, Ceramic, and Composite)

The kitchen sink is used dozens of times a day and is one of the most bacteria-laden surfaces in the home. Regular cleaning keeps it hygienic, stain-free, and looking its best.

What You'll Need

• Bar Keepers Friend Powder Cleanser — the most effective cleaner for stainless steel, ceramic, and composite sinks
• Amazon Basics Non-Scratch Sponges
• White vinegar (for mineral deposits and faucet cleaning)
• Baking soda (for drain deodorizing)
• An old toothbrush (for faucet crevices)
• Microfiber Cleaning Cloths — for streak-free drying

Daily Sink Cleaning (2 Minutes)

1. Rinse the sink after every use — don't leave food debris or standing water.
2. Wipe with a damp sponge and a drop of dish soap.
3. Rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth — drying prevents water spots and mineral buildup.

Weekly Deep Clean by Sink Type

Stainless Steel Sink

1. Wet the sink surface.
2. Sprinkle Bar Keepers Friend powder over the entire sink.
3. Scrub with a non-scratch sponge in the direction of the grain (the faint lines on the steel).
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a microfiber cloth.

Bar Keepers Friend removes water spots, rust stains, and discoloration from stainless steel effectively.

Ceramic / Porcelain Sink

1. Apply Bar Keepers Friend to a damp sponge.
2. Scrub gently — ceramic is more scratch-prone than stainless steel.
3. For stubborn stains, make a paste and let sit 5 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Rinse thoroughly.

Composite / Granite Sink

1. Use a mild dish soap and non-scratch sponge for daily cleaning.
2. For stains, apply a baking soda paste and let sit 10 minutes before scrubbing.
3. Avoid Bar Keepers Friend on dark composite sinks — it can lighten the color.

Cleaning the Faucet and Handles

1. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap.
2. For mineral deposits around the base, soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap around the affected area for 30 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush.
3. Dry immediately to prevent water spots.

Cleaning and Deodorizing the Drain

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow with ½ cup of white vinegar.
3. Let fizz for 10 minutes.
4. Flush with hot water.
5. For persistent drain odors, use Zeiff enzyme cleaner overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove rust stains from a stainless steel sink?

Apply Bar Keepers Friend paste to the rust spot, let sit 5 minutes, scrub with a non-scratch sponge in the direction of the grain, and rinse. For stubborn rust, repeat the treatment.

How do I get my white ceramic sink white again?

Apply Bar Keepers Friend paste and let sit 10–15 minutes before scrubbing. For very stubborn staining, a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda left for 30 minutes can restore whiteness.

Why does my sink smell even after cleaning?

The smell is coming from the drain, not the sink surface. Use the baking soda and vinegar flush, or pour enzyme cleaner down the drain and let sit overnight to break down the organic biofilm causing the odor.