In 2019, a porcelain sink still makes a great addition to your bathroom or kitchen, as it’s durable and looks great. Yet even the sturdiest fixtures are subject to normal wear and tear when put to daily use. Not much has changed. We’ve compiled a few tried-and-true methods that you can use to maintain and repair your sink.
Baking Soda
For smaller surface scratches, use baking soda for your porcelain sink scratch repair. After coating the scratch in a healthy layer of baking soda, buff it for a few minutes using a soft, damp cloth and rinse the affected area with warm water.
Pumice Stone
Pumice works as a filler and can repair minor scratches. The smaller the pores on the pumice stone, the better for this kind of delicate repair. To avoid additional scratching, soak the pumice stone completely in warm water for a few seconds before use. Buff back and forth on the scratch or nick until it is no longer visible.
Commercial Cleanser
These products have been around for as long as they have because they work. One recommended product is the Bon Ami powder cleanser. This cleaning solution can remove scratches and marks from dishware, showers, tubs and your porcelain sink. Bar Keepers Friend household cleanser can also work with porcelain sink scratches.
There are many versions of this cleaner, but the cream formula seems to work best for porcelain sink repair. (Both of these are multipurpose products, so you can utilize them for other items around your house, as well.)
Porcelain Repair Kit
For a sink that requires major work, a repair kit made specifically for porcelain sink restoration may be worth the cost. These kits typically include an abrasive cloth to buff the nick and surrounding space, and a gloss or glaze to fill the damaged area.
You can find a finish that matches the color of your sink and repairs scratches and minor cracks for a small cost. Repair kits are available at your local hardware store.
Which Method Works Best?
While all of these methods can work for DIYers, how well they do so depends on the extent of the damage. The baking soda, pumice stone and cleanser methods work well for small blemishes. For deeper scratches that require a more intensive process, a repair kit will likely yield better results.
How Can I Protect My Sink From Future Damage?
The easiest way to repair scratches may be to simply avoid them in the first place.
- For kitchen sinks, invest in a rubber mat to line the bottom. This will help protect the surface from pot, pan and hefty dishware scratches.
- Use non-abrasive sponges and cleaners during your regular cleaning regimen. Dishwashing liquid is recommended for sinks because it’s gentle and can be used on already-repaired areas.
- Lastly, do not clean porcelain sinks with vinegar, as its high acidity can damage the sink’s surface.
Instead of repairing an old sink, why not consider a new one? Read our tips for making your sink a statement piece for your bathroom, or contact us for more information on remodeling.