The ceramic sinks, with their antique look and durable surface, are an elegant detail for any kitchen and bathroom. However, this material tends to get stained and you can scratch it easily if you try to clean it with abrasive methods. That said, it is not difficult to remove stains from ceramic, as they do not stick to the inside, unless the surface is really worn and ruined. With proper care, you can keep the sink shiny for years to come.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Clean the Ceramic Sink
Step 1. Use a mild sponge and dish soap
Ceramic can be easily scratched, so do not use steel wool or steel wool. To remove surface stains, you can use a sponge and degreasing soap for dishes; scrub in circular motions and remove the soap residue with a clean rag or sponge.
Use the hottest water you can handle for the best results
Step 2. Clean the sink with baking soda
Use a wet cloth or sponge to cover the stain with baking soda; this powder is slightly abrasive and should remove dirt without damaging the surface. Make circular movements and rinse the area thoroughly, otherwise dry residue will remain on the sink.
For an even more potent solution, add lemon juice or ammonia
Step 3. Wet the area to be treated with bleach, cover it with kitchen paper and wait overnight
The paper holds the bleach in contact with the stain so it can penetrate better. The next morning, remove the sheets, rinse and scrub the sink for easy, effortless cleaning.
- Do this job in a well-ventilated area (or open the windows) to avoid inhaling the bleach vapors.
- Never perform the treatment on colored or antique ceramic, as the substance could damage the colors or details in wood or metal.
Step 4. Use vinegar to remove limescale stains
Close the drain and fill the sink with very hot water; add 250-500ml of vinegar and let it work for 3-4 hours. After this time, drain the water, the stains should be gone or you can easily remove them with a sponge.
Eliminate all traces of vinegar at the end of the treatment; if you don't pay attention, it could ruin the finish because it's an acidic substance
Step 5. Try other special but non-abrasive cleaners
Some products are useful for getting rid of stains, but you should be aware that not all cleaners are made equal; you must make sure that they do not contain abrasive or acidic ingredients, otherwise the ceramic may become dull.
Step 6. Use lemon juice and table salt to remove rust stains
This solution should be a last resort, as it is acidic, abrasive and can therefore dull the finish over time. However, when you have to deal with stubborn dirt, pour a little salt, squeeze some lemon juice on the surface and gently scrub with a sponge; in really desperate cases you can also let the mixture act for 15-20 minutes.
Method 2 of 2: Polishing and making the ceramic shine
Step 1. Purchase a finishing kit
The ceramic can be re-treated at home without too much difficulty to restore the original shine. To start, clean the surface as well as possible; rinse it and apply the substance in the kit using a clean rag and making sure to coat the entire sink with a thin layer. Follow the instructions in the package before using the sink again.
You can buy this polishing product at tile and sanitary stores
Step 2. Use lemon or baby oil to make the ceramic shine
Apply a few drops of oil on a rag and use it to scrub the sink; this procedure prevents the stains from setting and at the same time gives a good scent.
Step 3. Try using car wax to polish the sink and prevent scratches
You don't need a lot of product, just apply a little on a clean sponge and spread it over the entire surface; in this way the ceramic becomes shiny and fragrant.
Step 4. Consider having your sink polished by a professional
This type of sanitary ware is made by coating a cast iron core with ceramic and is extremely resistant once completed. For this reason, when the surface is heavily scratched or stained, it is often worth spending the money on a new treatment, as it protects the sink for many years to come.
Advice
- Wash it every one to two weeks with very hot water and dish soap to keep it clean and shiny with minimal effort.
- The previous advice is suitable for families who use the sink very little; indeed, it should be cleaned every day with a damp cloth. You can also use some glass cleaner to make the surface more shiny.
