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Stainless steel is an excellent material that can be used in the kitchen. It is sleek and durable. Its unique features can be used in kitchen appliances, sinks, and even counters.
However, it is prone to damage. You can easily scratch and destroy it. This scratched look can often be dull. It will make the kitchen look old and tasteless.
You can always replace the scratched stainless steel product. But, by doing so, you will have a rather costly expense at your hand.
Fortunately, it is possible to save your money and your damaged steel. You can easily remove scratches with minimal effort. This article will show you how to remove scratch from stainless steel sink.
How is stainless steel made?
To begin with, you need to know that stainless steel isn’t a natural metal. Instead, it is a mixture containing numerous metals specific of their kind. Small amounts of steel are melted first. This steel scrap usually consists of recyclable steel materials.
Then, the melted alloy is mixed with nickel or chromium. Finally, they are treated to give the necessary features of stainless steel.
The final product is resistant to corrosion and heat. Not only that, but you can also recycle it and easily mold it into the desired outcome.
Which things make scratches on the stainless steel?
You first need to know that several factors play into this. But, the most common causes of scratches in the steel sink are:
- Nonchalantly dropping kitchen utensils. Most of them have sharp edges, which makes them perfect for scratching and damaging the sink.
- Strong bleaching agents: Chlorine-based products are detrimental to stainless steel.
- Harsh metal cleaning brushes and wire sponges: Constantly using them to clean your sink can cause visible scratches on the surface.
How to remove scratch from stainless steel?
There is one thing you should keep in mind when removing scratches. The finished project won’t be a brand new sink. It won’t be the same as a newly-bought sink, but it will closely resemble one.
Depending on the depth of the scratches, you have to apply a specific removal method. Here’s how to remove scratch from stainless steel sink depending on scratch type:
Shallow scratches
Cleaning agents
This is how to remove scratch from stainless steel sink with a cleaning agent. For this method, you will need some cleaning product and a soft abrasive pad. You can use regular dish soap as a cleaning agent.
- First, gently wipe the sink. Make sure it is completely dry. Then pour the cleaning product on a soft pad. Ensure you use the right agent for stainless steel.
- With a small amount of pressure, gently rub over the scratch. Wipe the area clean to see whether you have achieved the desired results.
How to remove scratch from stainless steel sink using olive oil
Oil is always an excellent product to use when removing scratches. It is perfect if you want to get rid of small, miniature irregularities.
- Apply a small amount of olive oil onto a cloth or a paper towel. In back and forth motions, rub the oiled material on the scratch.
- Wipe dry the area to check whether you’ve made progress. Repeat the same process until you achieve the wanted result.
Deep scratches
Wet-sanding method:
Unlike shallow scratches, the deeper ones are a little harder to remove. If you want to get rid of these types of scratches, you’ll need to put a little more effort and time. For this sandpaper removing method, you will need several things. First, you’ll need warm water and two types of sandpaper. One should be a 1000 grit sandpaper, and the other one should be 600 grit.
- Before you begin sanding, you need to attach the 1000 grit to a rubber sanding block. Then fill a small container with the warm water. Put the block into the container. Let the sandpaper soak in the water.
- Then take the wet sandpaper and, with a little pressure, rub the area. Make sure you apply equal pressure on the sandpaper. You can always wrap the sandpaper on a woodblock. That way, you’ll distribute the pressure evenly.
- You also have to make sure you re-wet the sandpaper often. Then wipe the area you’ve been scratching on to see whether the scratch has disappeared.
Special scratch-removal kits
Local hardware stores usually sell specifically made removal kits for scratches. Some sinks come with particular manufacturer’s instructions on scratches. These instructions will tell you how to remove scratch from stainless steel sink and whether buying a remover will work for the sink.
- If you can use a remover, use non-abrasive cleaners. Cleaners such as Comet and Revere Stainless Steel and Copper Cleaner are ideal for deep scratches. They are all powders. You have to combine them with water or similar liquid/cream-like cleaners. That way, the powder will go smoother on the metal.
- All of the removal products come with some grit pads. Carefully read the instructions. Apply the recommended amount on the existing pad. Or, you can apply the remover directly on the scratch. Then move in the directed motions.
- After you’ve buffed out most of the scratch, use the lighter sandpaper grit. Use it to scrape away the remaining shallow scratch. After you’ve done all that, it is time to use a microfiber cloth. Use this cloth to wipe out the excess. Wipe clean the surface. You can also use water to clean it.
Your sink having scratches can be quite harsh to look at. They can be a great eyesore. That is why you should remove them as soon as possible. The steps above are a great list of instructions to follow how to remove scratch from stainless steel sink.
Whichever scratch removal method or product you use, it’s essential to rub only in the grain direction. If you don’t go in the right direction, you can exacerbate the problem.
Follow and stick to the steps that are meant for the type of damage. If you aren’t confident in yourself, hire a professional. Professional stainless steel restorers will come to your home to give you an estimate for repairs.
How to protect your stainless steel sink
There are several ways to protect your sink from scratches.
- For starters, you might want to avoid abrasive substances. If you regularly clean and maintain your sink, make sure to use softer materials.
- You can also use a dish mat. Place it whenever you are washing heavy pots or any iron objects. Make sure to remove the dish mat when you’re finished. That way, water won’t stay trapped underneath. If you don’t do so, you can cause discoloration.
Do not apply the techniques described here on stainless that has a protective clear coat or synthetic surface applied, or you’ll do more damage.
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