How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Sinks?

Stainless steel sinks are known for their resistance to corrosion with a timeless surface that’s meant to stay refined for years to come. However, the sinks are protected by a thin surface layer that can be damaged from being exposed to corrosive chemicals or conditions. If your sink has rusted, use the following tips to keep your sink looking clean and rust-free again.

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Why is my sink rusting?

• Use of harsh cleaning chemicals containing bleach.

• Hard water in the house.

• Leaving cast iron cookware in your sink for any length of time.

How to remove rust?

Option 1: Clean My Steel Solutions

What you will need:

• Clean My Steel rust remover (Innoshine B570)

• Clean My Steel cleaner and protectant (Innocare B580)

• Non-abrasive sponge

• Microfiber cloth

• Small Bowl or bucket

* If you purchased the Clean My Steel combo kit, it comes with everything you need.

Soak the rusted areas

The first step is to shake the Clean My Steel rust remover (Innoshine B570) well. Apply a generous amount of the solution onto the damp sponge.

Scrub the area and allow it to soak for 2-6 minutes or longer for heavier rusting. Wipe off with a damp cloth and repeat the steps if any additional corrosion remains.

Apply a stainless steel protectant

Keeping your stainless steel protected and shiny is an important part of preventing it to rust. Dilute 2 parts of cold water to 1 part of the Innocare B580 into a bowl. Apply generously with a microfiber cloth or sponge to the surface that was previously treated with the Innoshine B570. Allow the solution to air dry.

[Read More: How to Remove Scratches from Stainless Steel Sinks?]

Option 2: Baking Soda, Lemon Juice, and Vinegar

Looking for a natural alternative with your everyday household items? Try some baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar!

What you’ll need:

• Baking soda

• Lemon juice

• Microfiber cloth

• Soft-bristled toothbrush / Non-abrasive sponge

• Small bowl

• Spray Bottle

Make a baking soda paste

Rinse the sink well and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth. Mix an equal part of baking soda and lemon juice into a bowl until it forms a paste. If needed, add a tiny bit of water to help form the paste. Apply the paste to the rusted area and scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush or sponge. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

To treat tougher stains, sprinkle some baking soda over the rusted area and pour a small amount of vinegar. You may see some fizzing going on. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes and wipe clean with a soft cloth.

Vinegar cleaner and protectant

Vinegar is known to be a very effective way to disinfect and clean stainless steel. Pour a 1:1 ratio of water and vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the area that was just previously cleaned with baking soda and lemon juice. Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.

How to prevent rust from occurring?

• Do not leave dish rags or cleaning utensils in the sink basin.

• Do not leave rubber mats in the sink because they will allow soap and hard water deposits to form in the grain of the sink.

• Avoid the use of abrasive pads such as wire brushes, abrasive sponge pads, or steel wool. They will allow rust to get into the grain of the sink.

• Thoroughly clean and rinse the sink after each use.

• Dry dishes or cookware on top of a sink grid.

• Avoid aggressive chemicals.

Stainless steel rust removal and maintenance are simple. If you take a few moments to care for your sink after use, it can still look almost as good as new even after a long period of time.