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Keep the stink away from the sink
Porcelain enamel sinks Porcelain enamel is a glass surface fused to a metal base. This glass surface is damaged by acids and harsh abrasives. It is very hard but can be chipped by hard blows. Acid stains:
Porcelain enamel is acid resistant but not acid-proof. The glass
coating is gradually dissolved by acids. Acetic and muriatic acids are
effective in removing certain stains, but they will also remove part
of the surface coating of porcelain enamel. Eventually they will
attack the base metal underneath and cause serious damage. Therefore,
it is advisable not to use acid cleaners on porcelain enamel. |
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If you use scouring powder, it should be the very finest one possible. Most scouring powders contain hard particles that cause minute scratches. Once a glass-like surface has been roughened, it becomes a catchall for dirt, grease, soap residue and minute alkaline deposits from hard water. Then abrasives are necessary to remove soil imbedded in the roughened area. General stains: Commercial household or bathroom cleaners may also be used. You may use chlorine or hydrogen peroxide bleach to remove stains. Do not use these bleaches full strength or let them remain on the surface for more than a few seconds. Rinse the surface thoroughly. Bleaches eliminate most stains but are not effective on rust. Grease spots: Heavy deposits of grease or soap scum can be removed with warm water and ammonia solution . Rinse thoroughly. Do not combine with any other cleaners. Do not leave acid foods sitting on the sink surface for a long time. Many porcelain-on-cast iron sinks are not acid-resistant. But many acid fruits such as lemons and other citrus fruits, etc., vinegar, salad dressings and other acid foods could possibly etch even acid-resistant porcelain enamel if left in the sink a long time. Steel sinks Perforated rubber or plastic mats in the sink will cut down on scratching and marking by pans and tableware. Scratches: When scrubbing with stainless steel, always use some kind of liquid water or cleaner to act as a lubricant — this lessens the scratches. If there are rust stains, then you should not use bleach which will only further oxidise the stains Clean with a solution of dishwashing liquid detergent and water; or a solution of baking soda and water. Rinse and polish dry with paper towel or soft cloth. Never use scouring powders or steel wool as they will scratch stainless steel. Polishing: Can be brightened by polishing with a cloth dipped in vinegar, or in ammonia. Or dampen sink and a sponge; sprinkle a little baking soda on sponge and rub sink gently; rinse. Polish dry with a towel. — Compiled by Chetna
Banerjee |
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WHILE
utensils get cleaned daily, the area where dirty dishes are kept and
cleaned — the sink — does not get a thorough cleaning regularly.
This leads to various kinds of deposits or accumulation of stains.
Spare time to give the kitchen sink a thorough scrub at least once a
week so that it can sparkle as much as your utensils.