Sink Smarter: Pro Tips to Extend the Life of Your Kitchen Sink

A high-quality kitchen sink can last 10-15 years, but poor installation and neglect can cut its lifespan in half. Whether you have a stainless steel, quartz, or ceramic sink, proper maintenance is key to keeping it looking and functioning like new.

Things to note before installation are that different things need to be noted depending on who is cleaning the material. Stainless steel sinks should avoid contact with strong acid cleaners, while quartz sinks should avoid heavy impacts. In terms of size, at least three centimeters of edge space should be reserved to prevent the countertop from cracking under stress. 

Before installation, accessories should be carefully checked, such as confirming that the drain, sealing ring and other accessories are complete and undamaged. Things to note during installation are that mildew-proof silicone should be used for sealing to prevent cracking and mildew at the joints of the sink or water leakage. Do not bear weight within 24 hours after installation to ensure that the colloid is completely cured.

Good habits should be developed in daily use, such as drying immediately after cleaning, especially around the edges and seams, to prevent scale accumulation. Avoid extreme temperatures from coming into contact with the sink, such as not putting a hot pot just off the fire directly into the sink. Heavy objects should be placed lightly, such as cast iron pots, which should be placed in the middle of the sink.

If the following situations occur, it means you should maintain your sink! If the water flow rate slows down, the solution is to add 1:1 baking soda and white vinegar to rinse, and then rinse with hot water. If the surface of the sink is atomized, if the sink is made of stainless steel, pour olive oil and wipe it with a soft cloth; if the sink is made of quartz, it needs to be treated with a special cleaner. If the joints turn black, immediately remove the old glue and re-apply anti-mildew glue.

If you have spare time, you can clean your sink regularly, such as wiping stubborn scale with lemon slices; flushing the pipes with half a cup of coarse salt and half a cup of hot water; and pressing the edges lightly with your fingers to check for cracks.

Follow this maintenance plan and your sink can last 3-5 years longer! Start practicing the first tip now - take 30 seconds to dry the surface after using the sink. This small habit can avoid 80% of limescale problems!