How to Clean a Stainless Steel Sink with Borax

A stainless steel sink can become dirty with regular use, and although most kitchen waste won't stain, sometimes you will end up with a problem area. In this case, borax is known to remove even the toughest build up and dirt. Borax is a mineral used for many cleaning applications due to its gentle abrasive qualities and natural bleaching powers. By soaking a stainless steel sink overnight in borax, and then scrubbing with a borax paste, even the most stubborn stains can be safely removed.

Things You'll Need

• Borax
• Rubber gloves
• Small mixing bowl
• Scouring pad
• White vinegar
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Place the stopper in the stainless steel sink and fill with hot water, until the water level comes to about 2 inches from the top.

2. Add 1 cup of borax to the water and swish to combine. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 8 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Drain the water in the morning, and rinse the sink with warm water. Most stains and dirt should already be removed.

4. Put on the rubber gloves to protect your hands. Make a paste by combining borax and warm water in a small mixing bowl. Apply the borax paste directly to any areas that need extra cleaning, and scrub with a scouring pad until all spots are removed.

5. Rinse the paste from the sink with warm water. Follow this treatment by wiping down the inside of the stainless steel sink with pure white vinegar using a clean sponge. Rinse the vinegar away with cold water.

Tips & Warnings

• Borax can be found in the laundry aisle of your local supermarket, and is also sometimes sold in hardware stores and home improvement stores. If white vinegar is not available, lemon juice may be used for the final wipe-down and rinse.