How To Make Your White Sink Brighter

White sinks are a gorgeous addition to the home. Numerous sink styles are offered in white, as this classic color choice is the perfect pairing for almost any design. White sinks contrast beautifully against dark countertops in the kitchen and are a stunning stand-alone piece in the bathroom.

For homeowners with a white sink, the only challenge is ensuring that the sink continues to look bright and clean after years of use. While most white sinks are designed to prevent staining, the reality is that over time, white sinks can begin to dull, losing their initial luster.

The key to making a white sink brighter is to care for the sink daily and treat difficult stains in a material-appropriate way. The following guide showcases how to make a white sink brighter based on the sink's material.

Solid-Surface Sinks

Solid-surface sinks are designed with a mixture of stone and acrylic polymers. As a result, the sink is non-porous and generally stain-resistant. Solid-surface sinks are durable and long-lasting, making them a popular pick in the kitchen. However, while these sinks are fairly low maintenance, over time, they can lose their shine and begin to look dull, particularly if staining has occurred. To care for a white solid-surface sink, use the following strategies:

Preventing Stains and Scum Build-Up

1. First and foremost, the goal should be to prevent staining and remove any scum that is building up through ongoing use. Clean spills immediately. The longer any liquid or food is left to soak on the sink's surface, the greater chance of staining.
2. Use warm soapy water to wash the sink daily and after every use. Alternatively, an ammonia-based household cleaner can be used to remove residue and spills.
3. Never use window cleaners on solid-surface sinks. They can leave behind a difficult-to-remove residue and cause the sink's sheen to become dull.
4. Dry the sink with a soft cloth after cleaning. This will help prevent water spots.

Removing Stains

1. Use a regular unscented household bleach with 5%–9% sodium hypochlorite.
2. Mix five tablespoons of bleach with a gallon of room temperature water. Be sure to wear protective gear as outlined on the bleach bottle.
3. Spray this solution across the sink, targeting stained areas.
4. Allow the bleach solution to soak on the sink's surface for at least one hour.
5. Rinse the sink thoroughly and dry to polish.

Cast Iron Enameled Sinks

Built with a highly durable core, cast iron sinks are coated with white enamel to offer an added touch of style. These strong sinks are popular choices for the kitchen and feature a beautiful shine when new. However, over years of use, the luster of the shine can begin to diminish, which is why homeowners need to use the following care tips to keep their cast iron enameled sink at its best:

Preventing Stains and Scum Build-Up

1. Every day or after each use, clean the sink with a cleaner designed specifically for cast iron.
2. When cleaning the sink, be sure to use a non-abrasive material. Scouring pads can damage the high-gloss finish of the sink.
3. Never allow food, coffee grounds, or tea bags to rest in the sink. These can cause difficult-to-remove stains.
4. Dry after use. Once the sink is clean, use a soft towel or rag to dry the sink thoroughly. This will prevent water spots.

Removing Stains

1. Purchase a regular unscented household bleach with 5%–9% sodium hypochlorite.
2. Mix five tablespoons of bleach with a gallon of room temperature water. Make sure to follow all guidelines on the bleach bottle and wear protective gloves.
3. Spray the water beach solution across the sink, targeting stained areas.
4. Let the bleach solution rest on the stains for at least one hour.
5. Rinse the sink thoroughly and repeat the process as needed.
6. Dry the sink with a soft cloth.

Vitreous China Sinks

Vitreous china sinks feature a beautiful finish that is scratch resistant. This sink material is often found in the bathroom, and the initial white gleam of the sink adds to the appeal of the piece. To prevent these sinks from losing their gleam, use the following guidelines.

Prevent Stains and Scum Build-Up

1. Daily care will help prevent most stains to a vitreous china sink. To wash the sink, use warm water and mild dish soap or a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution.
2. Apply the soap or vinegar solution to the sink's surface and scrub with a soft sponge or cloth.
3. Rinse the sink bowl thoroughly.
4. Dry the sink with a soft cloth after cleaning and after every use. This helps to prevent the build-up of water spots and scum.

Removing Stains

1. In some cases, a vitreous china sink might become stained. Rust, hardened toothpaste, and mineral deposits from hard water can all cause difficult-to-remove stains. In this case, mix baking soda and white vinegar to form a paste.
2. Spread this paste over the sink's stains.
3. Allow the paste to rest for five to ten minutes.
4. Using a soft sponge or cloth, scrub the paste into the stain with a circular motion.
5. Rinse the sink thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Upgrade to a New Sink Today

In some cases, a sink may be stained beyond repair. In this case, it might be time to upgrade the sink with a new one. For inspiration and the latest in designs, shop Kingston Brass. Our quality selection of bathroom and kitchen sinks is designed with longevity in mind. With the proper care, these sinks can last for years, continuing to hold their original shine and beauty. Find the perfect white sink for any home.