Stainless steel sink looking dull? Try this simple baking soda cleaning hack to restore its shine

A stainless steel sink can instantly make a kitchen look brighter and cleaner, but water marks, food residue and grime can quickly leave it looking dull. If your sink has developed stubborn stains or a greasy film, a few everyday household ingredients can help bring back its shine.

Baking soda is a useful option for cleaning stainless steel because it is gentle enough for the surface when used correctly. However, it is still important to avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive tools that could damage the finish.

What You’ll Need

• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Vinegar (optional, but useful for stubborn stains and extra shine)
• Microfiber cloth
• Old cleaning toothbrush
• Soft sponge

Step 1: Clear And Rinse The Sink

Remove sponges, soap dispensers, dishes and anything else from the sink. Rinse the entire surface to wash away loose dirt and food particles before cleaning.

Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Cover the surface of the sink with a generous layer of baking soda. Make sure you spread it across areas where stains and grime have accumulated.

Leave the baking soda on the surface for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Scrub With Dish Soap

Add a few drops of dish soap to a soft sponge or cloth and gently work it into the baking soda. Always scrub in the direction of the stainless steel grain to minimise the risk of visible scratches.

Avoid using steel wool or rough scouring pads, as these can leave marks on the surface.

Step 4: Tackle Stubborn Spots

For mineral deposits, stubborn stains and difficult-to-reach corners, use an old cleaning toothbrush. Its small size makes it easier to work around the edges, drain and other tight areas.

For particularly stubborn buildup, a small amount of vinegar can also be used, provided the sink's manufacturer allows it.

Step 5: Rinse And Dry

Once the entire sink has been cleaned, rinse it thoroughly to remove the baking soda and soap residue.

Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the surface completely. Buff the sink in the direction of the stainless steel grain to enhance its shine and help prevent fresh water spots from appearing.