Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[street9009]

Hello,

I've searched the internet high and low for a solution to this and for the life of me can't figure it out. I'm hoping perhaps someone here can. Let me explain.

I have a stainless steel sink in my kitchen. Recently, a bowl was left there overnight and when it was removed, a white half-circle stain/discoloration was left behind (see images).





I have tried dish soap, comet (non-scratch formula for the house), baking soda, CLR Bath & Kitchen Multi-Surface Cleaner, "Steel for Real" Stainless Steel Polish... nothing is making this stain go away. The rest of my sink is gorgeous due to all these cleaning efforts, but the stain remains. I'm not even making a dent so far as I can tell.

Anything else I should try?

[mrscleannw]

Hello street9009,
Welcome to the forum!
Despite what the name implies, stainless steel can get stains.
Try these tips to restore your sink to its original beauty:
• Scrub the stain with a mixture of baking soda and dish soap, the combination of the two may be enough to remove the stain.
• Moisten a soft cloth with vinegar, and wipe the stained area.
• You can also try rubbing the stained area with olive oil and a soft cloth.



There are some additional tips and tricks for cleaning stainless steel at housecleaningcentral.com.

Be sure to thoroughly rinse any cleanser residue, and always wipe the stainless steel dry to avoid spotting.

Good Luck, and let me know how it turns out!

Mrs. Clean

[kanelita]

We used soft scrub with bleach for years on my parents old one with a green scrubbing pad by scotch,but theirs has the brushed finish. If yours is a smooth finish I wouldn't suggest that. Also maybe try using a liquid stainless steel cleaner sold at most Home Improvement stores.
Stainless steel sinks

[danneva]

Stainless steel is known for its ability to be clean surface that resists corrosion and rust. Dirt, dust, and grime, however, put stainless steel at risk for corrosion and rust. Luckily, stainless steel responds well to cleaning, never wearing out from excessive cleaning, as long as certain rules are followed.
1.Water and cloth – routine cleaning can be accomplished by using warm water and a cloth. This is at least risky option for cleaning stainless steel.
2.Mild detergent, (dish washing liquid) and cloth.
3.Glass cleaner for fingerprints – fingerprints are one of the biggest complaints about stainless steel, but can be taken care by using glass cleaner or household ammonia.
4.Stainless steel cleaner/polisher – if you’ve had staining or scratching, or need to polish your stainless steel, a stainless steel cleaner may be a good option. These cleaners and polishes can help minimize scratching and remove stains. They also can polish stainless steel surfaces nicely. Read the directions on the stainless steel cleaner and test in an inconspicuous spot. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and towel dry.

[street9009]

I have tried everything I can think of and the mark is still there. I am at a total loss for what to do to get it off.

[mrscleannw]

Hello again,

Sorry to hear you have not had much luck.

It is possible there may have been some kind of chemical reaction that has occurred making this a much more difficult task to complete on your own.

I would suggest you contact a professional that can professionally polish your stainless steel sink. After a process such as this your sink should be bright and shining clean.

Mrs. Clean

[JeffGarland]

Here is a great guide on how to maintain stainless steel products, sinks included. If it doesn't clean the discoloration then it can certainly help you keep your other stainless steel products clean and in good shape. http://www.aeromfg.com/caring_for_stainless.html