How to Clean Your Sink Properly

Josep M Carulla Guia
Jan 12
3 min read

The sink is one of the most frequently used elements in both kitchens and bathrooms, yet it is also one of the areas where dirt builds up the fastest. Food residues, grease, limescale and bacteria accumulate daily, and improper cleaning can lead to unpleasant odours, stubborn stains and premature material deterioration. In this article, we explain how to clean your sink properly, using professional criteria and avoiding common mistakes.

Why proper sink cleaning is so important

A sink that looks clean may still hide invisible dirt.

It is a common source of bacteria and germs
It can cause persistent bad odours
Limescale and residue damage the surface over time
It creates a poor impression in homes and professional spaces

Proper cleaning is not only about appearance, but also about hygiene and maintenance.

Types of sinks and how they affect cleaning

Before you start, it is important to identify the material:

Stainless steel sinks: very common and durable, but sensitive to scratches and limescale marks
Ceramic sinks: strong and long-lasting, but prone to staining if not cleaned regularly
Resin or composite granite sinks: modern and stylish, but vulnerable to aggressive products

Each type requires the right products and methods to avoid damage.

How to clean your sink step by step

1. Remove visible debris

Clear away food scraps, hair or solid dirt before wetting the surface. This prevents spreading dirt during cleaning.

Net i Pulit cleaner wearing blue gloves removing food scraps from the drain strainer of a stainless steel sink in a modern kitchen.

2. Rinse with hot water

Hot water helps loosen grease and stuck-on residue, making cleaning easier.

Net i Pulit cleaner rinsing a stainless steel sink with hot water, slight steam visible and focus on the water stream.

3. Apply the right cleaning product

Use a neutral or material-specific cleaning product. Avoid highly abrasive products unless absolutely necessary.

Close-up of a Net i Pulit cleaner applying an unlabelled spray cleaner to a stainless steel sink with light foam on the surface.

4. Clean gently

Microfibre cloth or soft sponge
Never use metal scouring pads, especially on stainless steel

For stainless steel sinks, always wipe in the direction of the grain.

Detail of a Net i Pulit cleaner scrubbing a stainless steel sink with a microfiber cloth along the grain, with controlled foam.

5. Pay special attention to the drain

This is one of the areas where bacteria accumulate most. Clean the strainer and surrounding area thoroughly.

6. Final rinse and drying

Aclara abundantemente y seca con un paño limpio. Este paso es clave para evitar marcas de cal.

How to remove limescale from the sink

Limescale is a very common issue, especially in the Barcelona metropolitan area.

Apply a suitable limescale remover
Leave it to act for the recommended time
Gently scrub
Rinse and dry thoroughly

Never leave the product on longer than advised, as this may damage the surface.

Common sink-cleaning mistakes

Using metal scouring pads
Mixing different cleaning chemicals
Skipping the drying step
Letting dirt build up for days

These mistakes are responsible for most cases of premature sink damage.

How often should you clean your sink?

Domestic use: light daily cleaning and a deep clean once a week
Offices and businesses: daily professional cleaning
High-use kitchens: frequent deep cleaning

Consistency is key to keeping your sink in good condition.

Fully dry and shiny stainless steel sink, with a Net i Pulit cleaner in the background finishing the final wipe with a clean cloth.

When professional cleaning is recommended

There are situations where household cleaning is not enough:

Old sinks with heavy limescale build-up
Professional environments with strict hygiene requirements
Offices, commercial premises and industrial facilities

Professional cleaning ensures long-lasting results without damaging materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can bleach be used on sinks?

Yes, but only occasionally and with moderation, especially on stainless steel.

How can I prevent bad odours from the drain?

By regularly cleaning the strainer and preventing organic waste from accumulating.

Is it really necessary to dry the sink every time?

Yes. Drying prevents limescale marks and keeps the surface looking better for longer.

Can limescale permanently damage a sink?

Over time, yes. If not removed correctly, it can leave permanent marks.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean your sink properly is essential to maintain hygiene, avoid problems and extend the life of the installation. With a simple routine and by avoiding common mistakes, your sink will stay clean, well-maintained and in excellent condition.

At Net i Pulit, we specialise in professional cleaning services in the Barcelona metropolitan area, for both businesses and private clients.If you want a spotless result without hassle, contact us and we will advise you with no obligation.

We also provide specialised services such as server room and data centre cleaning and solar panel cleaning, tailored to demanding professional environments.