How To Clean Dirt And Grime Off Kitchen Cabinets

Sink Cleaning Story

Chad Baker/Jason Reed/Ryan McVay

Get Rid of Gunk

Just about everything that happens in the kitchen — cooking, cleaning, kids' craft projects, and more — involves the sink, so it gets stained easily. Splotches show up most obviously on light porcelain or solid resin surfaces, but even stainless steel is susceptible. The speediest way to remove marks from these surfaces: Use an eraser-type sponge like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. (Extra-stubborn spots may need a spritz of an all-purpose cleaner with bleach, and more "erasing.") Then rinse.

Sanitize Wisely

To sanitize any sink after cleaning, plug the drain and fill the basin with a gallon of warm water. Swish in a tablespoon of bleach. Dip in a sponge; wipe down the faucet and handles. Let sit at least five minutes. Rinse and allow to air dry.

Make It Easier Next Time

Stash baking soda under the sink, sprinkle it on stains before they set in, and just wipe and rinse. Bonus: Baking soda fights drain odors.

To keep a stainless steel sink looking spiffy, take a few minutes to smooth away scratches, which harbor stains and bacteria, with a powdered stainless steel cleanser, like Cameo, and a regular sponge. While you're at it, help repel grime by applying a light coating of mineral oil with a rag.

More Cleaning Tips:
• 14 Hidden Germ Spots Around the House
• 6 Big Mistakes You Make Washing Your Sheets
• The Best Way to Clean Grimy Grout

Carolyn Forte, Good Housekeeping Institute Director, Home Appliances & Cleaning Products Lab Carolyn Forte, a consumer products expert, is the director of the Home Appliances & Cleaning Products Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

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