Why Is My Brand New Stainless Steel Sink Rusting and How Do I Fix It?

Stainless steel sinks aren’t supposed to rust, right? After all, stainless is in the name. Unfortunately, that’s a common misconception. These sinks may be extremely resistant to rust, but they’re not totally immune. Thankfully, corrosion usually has less to do with your sink and more to do with how you use it. So, why is your brand new stainless steel sink rusting? Here are some possible culprits—and how to fix it.

1. Metal Cookware

Most of the time, rust in your stainless steel sink isn’t actually from your sink. It’s residue from metal cookware (think: cast iron skillets, baking sheets, and utensils). When metal cookware sits in your sink, the iron in the cookware can oxidize—or rust—in standing water. When those water droplets dry, you’ll notice rust on your sink. 

How to Fix It

To get rid of the rust, scrub it with a gentle cleaner that contains oxalic acid or a DIY rust remover like distilled vinegar, lemon juice, or a paste made from three parts baking soda and one part water. Once you remove the rust, make sure you clean, rinse, and dry your sink regularly. 

2. Metal Sponges or Brushes

Like metal cookware, metal sponges or brushes can oxidize and leave rust in your sink. You should never use these products to clean your sink because they’re too abrasive, but you can use them to clean certain types of cookware. 

How to Fix It

You can remove the rust with a DIY cleaner or an oxalic acid cleaner. Scrub gently with a soft bristle brush until the residue lifts. To prevent further rust, keep metal sponges and brushes out of the sink as they’re drying.

3. Damage to the Protective Layer

Stainless steel sinks have a protective layer of chromium oxide on the surface. This layer can naturally wear down over time, but if your sink is new, rust could be a sign of accidental damage. Aggressive cleaning, harsh chemicals, and metal utensils or sponges can all damage the coating, leading to rust. 

How to Fix It

You can restore your sink’s finish by removing the rust and using a stainless steel scratch remover. This comes as a polish or paste. The chromium oxide layer should naturally regenerate, but you can apply an additional protective coating.

4. Tap Water with High Chlorine or Iron Content

Tap water can contain chlorine and iron. If there are high levels in the water supply, you may notice rust in your sink. This will present as streaks of rust in the direction water runs down the drain.

How to Fix It

To prevent rust from chlorine or iron in your tap water, hire a plumber to install a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter under your stainless steel sink.

When to Call a Pro

If you notice rust on your sink that you can’t remove with gentle cleaners, it’s time to call a house cleaning service near you. Professional cleaners will know the best ways to remove rust from stainless steel. They’ll also have professional cleaning products you won’t typically find under your kitchen sink. This can help kick the most stubborn of stains. 

How to Prevent Your Stainless Steel Sink from Rusting

The best way to get rid of rust on your stainless steel sink is to prevent it altogether. Proper maintenance is the key. Follow these steps:

• Don’t use metal sponges or abrasive scrubbers to clean your sink.

• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach and other chlorine-based cleaners.

• Avoid leaving metal pots, pans, utensils, or tools in your sink.

• Regularly clean, rinse, and dry your sink to prevent oxidation.

• Remove food debris (especially salt) promptly. 

• Don’t leave wet items on the surface of your sink.

• Add a protective coating to your sink.