How To Clean Rust Stains From Stainless Steel Sink

Rust stains on stainless steel sinks can be unsightly and difficult to remove. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to clean them off and keep your sink looking its best.

1. Identify the type of rust. There are two types of rust that can form on stainless steel: surface rust and pitting rust. Surface rust is a thin layer of rust that forms on the surface of the metal. Pitting rust is a more severe type of rust that forms pits in the metal. If you are not sure which type of rust you have, err on the side of caution and treat it as pitting rust.

2. Gather your supplies. You will need the following supplies to clean rust stains from stainless steel:

A mild acid, such as white vinegar or lemon juice
A soft cloth or sponge
A non-abrasive cleaner, such as dish soap or baking soda
A toothbrush (optional)

3. Apply the mild acid. Dip a soft cloth or sponge in the mild acid and apply it to the rust stain. Allow the acid to sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes.

4. Scrub the stain. Once the acid has had time to sit, use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the stain. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the stainless steel.

5. Rinse the sink. Once you have scrubbed the stain, rinse the sink with water to remove any remaining acid or cleaner.

6. Dry the sink. Use a clean cloth or towel to dry the sink completely.

7. Repeat steps 3-6 as necessary. If the rust stain is still visible, repeat steps 3-6 as necessary until the stain is removed.

Tips:

If you are dealing with pitting rust, you may need to use a more abrasive cleaner, such as steel wool. However, be careful not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the stainless steel.
You can also use a commercial rust remover to clean rust stains from stainless steel. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
To prevent rust stains from forming in the future, be sure to rinse your sink with water after each use and dry it completely with a clean cloth or towel.