Even though you may associate your kitchen sink with cleanliness, it’s exposed to plenty of dirt and debris every day. One of the most effective ways to keep it clean and avoid drain cleaning emergencies is to practice proper maintenance. Here are four tips that can help keep your sink clean and problem-free.

How to Care for the Kitchen Sink

1. Clean the Surface

Stainless steel is one of the most common materials used to craft kitchen sinks. Although it looks brilliant when clean, it does a poor job of hiding spots and stains. To keep it looking as good as new, apply a bit of baking soda to any stained areas, gently rub it in with a dry microfiber cloth, and then rinse. Make a habit of wiping the entire sink down every day to promote a consistently clean finish.

2. Watch What You Rinse

What you rinse in the kitchen sink is essential to its cleanliness. Avoid rinsing fats, oils, and grease (also known as “FOGs”), bones, coffee grounds, and anything fibrous. Each of these items can cause trouble once they’re in your pipes. These types of foods can also contribute to an unsanitary kitchen; bacteria that collects over time can attract drain flies that are difficult to manage. Since many blockages are quite stubborn, you’ll likely need a plumber to handle drain cleaning for you in the event of a clog.

3. Sanitize the Sink

In addition to regular cleaning, take the time to sanitize your sink at least once a week. Plug the drain, and fill the entire basin with warm water. Add a drop or two of bleach and wait for at least five to 10 minutes before draining. Be sure to run a cloth over the faucet during this step. Wipe down to finish.

4. Maintain the Disposal

Your garbage disposal performs a valuable function by obliterating large pieces into small bits, but it’s still vulnerable to problems. To maintain it, plug the drain and fill the sink with cold water. Then drain it. As the water flushes rapidly, it will help purge any food debris that remains inside the disposal. This will also prevent drain cleaning emergencies and odors linked to bacteria.

Are you seeking a trustworthy plumber to assist with drain cleaning or a drain line inspection? Turn to the professionals at AAA Plumbing Repair Service in Roanoke, VA. Proudly serving the community since 1976, the family-owned company is proud to provide dependable service when you need them the most. Visit them online to learn more about how they can help, or call (540) 344-6800.