KWC Plumbing Product User Manual
Stainless steel sink cleaning recommendations
Stainless Steel Sink Cleaning Recommendations
KWC sinks are crafted from the highest quality heavy-gauge, type 304 quality (18/10) stainless steel. 18/10 represents the
metallurgic construction of the stainless steel: 18% chromium for greater reflection and shine; and 10% nickel for strength and
resistance to corrosion. This metallurgic combination makes stainless steel an extremely durable surface material that may be
damaged if proper measures are not taken in its care and maintenance.
Recommendations for ongoing care and maintenance of your KWC stainless steel sink are listed below.
Basic Daily Care
Simple attention to your sink’s appearance on a daily basis
is often the key to longer life. Begin by cleaning your sink
after each use with a soapy sponge or cloth, then rinse
thoroughly with warm water and dry with a towel using a
dabbing motion. This will eliminate water spots and streaks,
which occur if water drops are left standing in the sink.
Remember that most soaps, cleaners and detergents
contain chlorides, which, if not removed, may cause pitting,
and stains. Always be sure that your sink is rinsed
thoroughly before drying.
Weekly Cleaning
As with any product, preventative maintenance on a regular
basis will eliminate many potential problems, which may be
compounded over time. This is why weekly cleaning is
important. For basic cleaning, use a non-abrasive stainless
steel cleaner covering the surface completely, rinse
thoroughly with warm water, and then dry with a towel using
a dabbing motion. This regular attention to your sink will help
avoid stains and rust particle build-up.
Stains and Rust
Stains are most often caused by various minerals contained
in your water supply. These mineral deposits settle in the
surface of the stainless steel, causing either a rainbow
effect, brown, white or gray film on the surface of your sink.
Similarly, rust spots may develop in portions of your sink
even if metallic objects are not regularly left in the sink. Rust,
contrary to popular belief, is not an inherent trait of the
stainless steel sink. Rust is caused by a build-up of iron
particles from steel wool pads, pots, utensils, water and
other sources, which accumulate in the surface and create
rust spots. To eliminate both stains and rust spots, use a
non-abrasive or mild-abrasive cleaner as indicated in the
weekly cleaning section. When applying force or using any
abrasive cleaner, always follow the direction of the grain on
the surface. Any scrubbing opposite of or against the grain
will appear as scratches on the surface of the sink. When
finished, rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a
towel using a dabbing motion.
Scratches
We like to think that we will always be able to avoid
scratches to our sinks, but of course it is very unlikely. In
fact, small scratches over time begin to resemble the
patterns created on the original sink surface. Knives,
forks,
pots and other cooking tools are all items, which may be
rinsed in the sink, but should be stored or placed in another
location. If an unfortunate accident occurs, however, the
effects of the scratch can be minimized in a few simple
steps. The appearance of the scratches can be minimized by
using a “fine” 3M Scotch Brite pad. Wipe in the direction of
the grain over the scratched area, rinse with warm water and
towel dry the area. You may repeat the action if the effects of
the scratch do not dissipate.
Other Potential Hazards to Avoid
Avoid prolonged sink contact with foods containing high
concentrations of salt or acids. These foods may cause
corrosion. Rinse thoroughly if these foods do come in
contact with the sink surface.
Avoid standing solutions of dish washing detergent or
bleaches containing chlorine. These solutions, over a period
of time, will cause pitting on the surface of the sink. After this
type of use, immediately clean as directed in weekly
cleaning section.
Avoid leaving wet cloths or sponges in or on the sink. As dry
as these items may appear, they still contain water and
minerals, which may cause spotting or deposits.
Avoid prolonged use of rubber mats which are traditionally
placed in the sink. These items trap water and minerals and
may also cause spotting or deposits. After use clean, rinse
and dry.
Do not use any type of steel wool pad to clean the surface of
your sink.
Using these helpful tips will assist in providing a long life for
your sink. Stainless steel sinks will always be an American
favorite in the kitchen and KWC is proud to provide the finest
found anywhere in the world. If you have further questions
regarding the care of your KWC sink, contact your plumbing
contractor or dealer. You may also call KWC Customer
Service or Technical Departments at 1-888-592-3287.
KWC FAUCETS INC. Tech Dept. 1770 Corporate Drive #580 Norcross, GA 30093
Phone 678.334.2121 Fax 678.334.2128