Stainless Steel at Your Service

About Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks aren’t “perfect”; no material is perfect for all conditions and situations. We are not aware of any material that is more durable and more “ideal” for sinks than quality stainless steel.

Stainless steel sinks are made from nickel-bearing stainless steel. The mellow satin surface is compatible with any décor and color scheme. It is timeless and elegant, and like fine silver, its beautiful finish becomes lovelier with use and age. A quality stainless steel sink, with proper care and maintenance, will give you a lifetime of service.

Why Stainless Steel Is “Stainless”

When the chromium in the stainless steel is exposed to oxygen, an invisible layer of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) is formed. This layer is impervious to water and air, giving the stainless steel exceptional corrosion-resistant properties.

6 Reasons Why We Like Stainless Steel Sinks

  • Tough – Stainless steel is more durable than porcelain and cast iron, and more forgiving than composites. Stainless steel sinks won’t chip, nick, or crack. Thin stainless sinks can get dented, but “cheap” sinks of any other material tend to have less longevity than a “cheap” stainless steel sink.
  • Luster – Stainless steel will not rust, stain, or fade, and the finish resists scratches. It keeps its luster longer while other materials show their age.
  • Absorbs Shock – Stainless steel sinks will “give” on impact to cushion glasses and dishes against breakage.
  • Easier to Clean – Stainless steel retains its luster when cleaned with household cleanser and a soft towel. Healthcare facilities trust stainless steel sinks due in part to their sanitary surface.
  • Greater Capacity – Stainless steel has the strength and flexibility that allows for deeper sink bowls. It has more overall usable space than porcelain or cast iron.
  • Complements Any Décor – Stainless steel sinks have clean lines and a cool texture that reflect surrounding colors and patterns. They also complement any décor long after trendy colors are out of style.

Chlorides

Today, chlorides are found in most soaps, detergents, bleaches, and cleansers; chlorides can be aggressive to stainless steel. However, chlorides are very water-soluble. Therefore, thorough rinsing of your sink after each use to remove any chloride residue, along with a weekly scouring, is all that is required to keep your sink looking bright and shiny.

Scratches

Like many metallic surfaces, your stainless steel sink will scratch. These are merely usage scratches and over time will blend into the overall finish of your sink.

Water Quality

The quality of your Toronto water can affect your sink’s appearance. If your water has a high iron content, a brown surface stain can form on the sink, giving the appearance of rust. Additionally, in areas with a high concentration of minerals or with over-softened water, a white film may develop on the sink. To combat these problems, we suggest towel-drying the sink after use, and on a weekly basis, cleaning the sink thoroughly.

Food

Heavy salt concentrations or foods containing high levels of salt should not be allowed to dry on the sink surface. Rinse your sink thoroughly after use.

Cutting

Your sink is designed to serve many purposes, but should not be used as a cutting board or chopping block. This type of use will lead to deep scratches in the sink finish and will dull your knives.

Routine Care

  • Most dirt & stains – Use soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaner.
  • Watermarks – Wipe with a damp cloth, then towel dry.
  • Disinfecting – Occasionally wipe the surface with diluted household bleach (1 part water / 1 part bleach).
  • Maintenance – Occasionally clean by filling the sink one-quarter full with a 50/50 water and bleach solution. Let it soak for 15 minutes, then wash the sides and bottom as the solution drains, and rinse thoroughly.

Precautions

  • Do… Rinse sinks thoroughly after each use by running the water for a few minutes and rubbing the cleaned area with a sponge.
  • Do… Avoid exposing the sink to strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. If contact occurs, quickly flush the surface with water.
  • Do… Run cold water when pouring boiling water into the sink to minimize temperature shock.
  • Do… Towel dry after each use to prevent mineral deposits from building up on the surface of the sink.
  • Do… Scour the sink once a week, being sure to rub in the direction of the satin finish lines.
  • Do… Remove nail polish with a non-acetone-based nail polish remover and flush with water.
  • Don’t… Allow food or beverage residue, metal canned products, or mild steel or cast iron cookware to remain on the sink surface for long periods of time, as this can result in permanent staining.
  • Don’t… Cut directly on sink surfaces.
  • Don’t… Set hot pans directly into the sink.
  • Don’t… Scour the sink across the satin finish lines, as this can damage the original sink finish.
  • Don’t… Allow liquid soap or other household cleansers to dry on the surface of the sink. Most brands contain chemical additives that will affect the finish.
  • Don’t… Use drain cleaning products that contain sulfuric or hydrochloric acid.
  • Don’t… Leave standing solutions of chlorine bleach and water in the sink for extended periods of time. Chlorides found in most soaps, detergents, bleaches, and cleansers are very aggressive to stainless steel and can cause surface pitting if left on too long.
  • Don’t… Use a steel wool pad to clean your sink. Steel wool pads tend to break apart, and small particles of steel can become embedded in the sink surface, causing rust.
  • Don’t… Use rubber mats or dishpans in the sink to protect the finish. Leaving them in the sink can lead to surface rust or possible pitting. Use stainless steel bottom grids instead, or remove mats and dishpans after each use.
  • Don’t… Leave wet sponges, cloths, or cleaning pads on the sink, as this can lead to surface rust.

If you’re ready to replace your current sink or are starting from scratch, contact your Toronto plumber at Priority Plumbing & Drains for all your sink and fixture installation needs.

Article Source: http://www.plumbingproducts.com/stainless-steel-sink-care.html