How to Restore the Shine of My Black Porcelain Sink

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To make your black porcelain sink shiny, follow these steps:

1. Clean the sink: Use a mild detergent or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean the sink. Scrub gently in circular motions to remove any dirt or stains.

2. Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the sink with warm water to remove any residue or soap.

3. Dry the sink: Use a soft cloth or paper towel to dry the sink completely. This will prevent water spots or streaks from forming.

4. Apply a sink polish: Use a non-abrasive sink polish specifically designed for porcelain sinks. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and buff the sink in circular motions.

5. Rinse and dry again: Rinse the sink with warm water to remove any polish residue. Dry with a soft cloth to achieve a shiny finish.

Remember to avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can scratch the surface of your sink. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your black porcelain sink looking shiny and beautiful.


Over time and with frequent use, porcelain sinks can become dull. Soap scum can leave a white film, while food, toothpaste, and rust can accumulate. Fortunately, you can clean a black sink using common household products. It is important to note that when cleaning porcelain, it is recommended to use cloth towels, sponges, and nylon-covered pads instead of abrasive or harsh cleaning pads, as they can cause scratching and damage the finish.

Utilize Kitchen Products

To remove dirt, food stains, and grease, liquid dishwashing detergent works wonders. Simply scrub away the stains with a sponge and rinse thoroughly to restore the shine.

For dark stains such as coffee, tea, wine, or juice, try using baking soda. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water and scrub the stain with a damp washcloth. Rinse the sink thoroughly with water. Another effective cleaner for porcelain sinks is full-strength white vinegar. Scrub the sink thoroughly with vinegar, then rinse clean with cold water. Repeat the process if necessary. This all-natural cleaner is particularly effective against tougher stains.

Use Borax for Stubborn Stains

Borax, also known as sodium tetraborate, is highly effective against difficult stains, especially rust. Create a paste by combining 1 cup of borax with 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Apply the paste to a sponge or cloth towel and scrub the stain thoroughly. Rinse the sink with warm water. It is advisable to wear gloves when cleaning with Borax to avoid skin irritation and to prevent contact with the eyes.

Clean with Ammonia

Soap scum can leave a white film on black porcelain enamel sinks, making it difficult to remove grease and other food buildup. For stubborn stains, mix 1 tablespoon of ammonia with 1 gallon of hot water. Rinse the sink thoroughly to remove all traces of ammonia. When working with ammonia, it is important to wear gloves to prevent skin irritation and to ensure proper ventilation in the room.

Try Hydrogen Peroxide

For white or colored porcelain sinks, liquid oxygen bleach such as hydrogen peroxide is a suitable option. It is less caustic than bleach. Pour hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and wear gloves when using it. Line the sink with paper towels and saturate them with hydrogen peroxide. Allow the paper towels to sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse the sink thoroughly with clean water.

Purchase a Mild Abrasive Cleanser

If you prefer to use a commercial cleanser, opt for a mild abrasive liquid. Bar Keepers Friend is an excellent product. Wet the surface of the sink first, then apply a small amount of the cleaner and let it sit for approximately 1 minute. Avoid leaving it on for too long, as it could cause discoloration.

Gently scrub the surface with a nonabrasive sponge. Bar Keepers Friend contains oxalic acid, which is effective in lifting stains. However, be cautious not to use too much, as porcelain is delicate and excessive use may result in scratches or discoloration. Rinse the sink thoroughly after cleaning.

Using Naval Jelly to Remove Rust

When dealing with stubborn rust stains, one effective solution recommended by Bob Vila is to use naval jelly. This rust dissolver can be easily obtained at most hardware stores. Apply a thin layer of naval jelly to the affected area. Keep a close eye on the stain and rinse off the naval jelly promptly upon observing any change in the stain’s color.

Naval jelly is commonly employed for rust removal on metal surfaces, but caution should be exercised when using it on porcelain. Make sure to thoroughly rinse it off as soon as the stain is eliminated to prevent any damage. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling naval jelly to avoid any skin contact.

To address more severe damage on a porcelain sink, a porcelain sink sealer can be used, while a composite sink sealer is suitable for granite and quartz sinks. Regular cleanings are helpful in preventing the buildup of soap scum and maintaining the sink’s shine. Promptly clean any stains to prevent them from setting in. Excessive abrasion can harm porcelain sinks, especially older models or antiques. By following these cleaning methods, your black porcelain sink will regain its sparkle and appear brand new.

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