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How to Clean a Black Porcelain Kitchen Sink: 4 Effective Methods

how to clean a black porcelain kitchen sink

Last Updated on November 14, 2023

Cleaning your kitchen’s black porcelain sink is imperative to maintain its sleek and elegant appearance. Over time, these sinks can accumulate soap scum, food stains, and mineral deposits, making them lose their shine. There are several ways to restore your black porcelain sink to like new. 

You can use liquid dishwashing detergent and a soft cloth or sponge to clean your sink for the best results. Simple steps involve applying the detergent, scrubbing the sink thoroughly, and then rinsing it off. 

Another approach utilizes the power of baking soda and water to remove stubborn stains gently.

We’ll discuss several methods, providing step-by-step instructions to ensure your black porcelain kitchen sink regains its luster.

How to Clean a Black Porcelain Kitchen Sink: 4 Methods Step-By-Step

How to Clean a Black Porcelain Kitchen Sink: 4 Methods Step-By-Step

You can use several methods to clean a black porcelain kitchen sink.

1. Method 1: Using liquid dishwashing detergent

  • Step 1: Gather your supplies
  • Step 2: Rinse the kitchen sink
  • Step 3: Apply dishwashing detergent
  • Step 4: Scrub the sink
  • Step 5: Rinse thoroughly

2. Method 2: Using baking soda and water

  • Step 1: Sprinkle baking soda
  • Step 2: Scrub gently
  • Step 3: Rinse thoroughly

3. Method 3: Using white vinegar

  • Step 1: Soak the sink
  • Step 2: Scrub and rinse with cold water

4. Method 4: Using borax paste for stubborn stains

  • Step 1: Prepare borax paste
  • Step 2: Apply the borax paste
  • Step 3: Let it sit
  • Step 4: Scrub and rinse thoroughly

Method 1: Using Liquid Dishwashing Detergent

Below are the steps you can follow to clean a black porcelain kitchen sink with liquid dishwashing detergent:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To effectively clean your sink, you’ll need liquid dishwashing detergent, a soft sponge or cloth, and access to running water.

Step 2: Rinse the Kitchen Sink

To begin cleaning your black porcelain kitchen sink, rinse it thoroughly with warm water. In this way, you can remove any loose debris and surface dirt that has accumulated on it.

Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently wipe the sink’s surface, paying close attention to the corners and grooves to ensure that all the dirt is removed.

Step 3: Apply Dishwashing Detergent

Once your sink is clean and free of any loose debris, it’s time to apply the dishwashing detergent.

Squirt a small amount of liquid dishwashing detergent directly onto a damp sponge or cloth. Use only a small amount of the detergent to prevent soap buildup and streaks on the surface of your sink.

Step 4: Scrub the Sink

Gently scrub the entire surface of your black porcelain kitchen sink with a soapy sponge or cloth. Use a circular motion to ensure that every inch of the sink is thoroughly scrubbed.

Pay special attention to areas with food stains or grease buildup. Use a little bit of extra effort to help remove any stubborn stains.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing your sink, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove all the soap residue. Make sure to rinse every corner of the sink to ensure that no soap suds are left behind.

Method 2: Using Baking Soda and Water

You may also try cleaning a black porcelain kitchen sink with baking soda and water.

Step 1: Sprinkle Baking Soda

To clean your black porcelain kitchen sink with baking soda and water, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the stained or soiled areas.

Cover it properly with baking soda, as it will act as an effective abrasive to remove stubborn stains.

Step 2: Scrub Gently

Scrub the baking soda into your black porcelain kitchen sink’s surface using a washcloth or sponge dampened with water. Be sure to apply gentle pressure, as black porcelain sinks can be prone to scratching.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Now rinse the sink thoroughly with warm water to wash away the baking soda and loosened stains. Repeat the process until all the stains are removed and your black porcelain kitchen sink is completely clean.

Method 3: Using White Vinegar

You can use white vinegar to clean black porcelain kitchen sinks by following these steps:

Step 1: Soak the Sink

To clean your black porcelain kitchen sink, soak it with white vinegar. Start by pouring full-strength white vinegar all over the sink’s surface, including areas with visible stains and mineral buildup.

Make sure that you cover the entire surface evenly with the vinegar. After pouring the vinegar, let the sink soak for about 15-20 minutes to allow the vinegar to penetrate and loosen any dirt or stains.

Step 2: Scrub and Rinse with Cold Water

After the sink has soaked for 15-20 minutes, it’s time to scrub and rinse it. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the sink thoroughly, ensuring the vinegar comes into contact with all stains and residues.

Once you have finished scrubbing the sink, rinse it with cold water to remove the vinegar and any loosened dirt or stains. Make sure that you rinse the sink thoroughly to ensure that all the vinegar has been removed.

Method 4: Using Borax Paste for Stubborn Stains

You can use borax paste to remove stubborn stains from a black porcelain kitchen sink by following these steps.

Step 1: Prepare Borax Paste

To clean a black porcelain kitchen sink with stubborn stains, you will need to prepare a borax paste. Mix 1 cup of borax with 1/4 cup of lemon juice in a small bowl to create a paste.

Step 2: Apply the Borax Paste

Once you have prepared the borax paste, it is time to apply it to the stubborn stains in your black porcelain kitchen sink.

Spread the paste evenly over the stained areas, targeting the rust stains in particular. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the paste, and cover all the stained areas thoroughly.

Step 3: Let It Sit

It needs time to sit on the surface to allow the borax paste to work effectively on the stubborn stains in your black porcelain kitchen sink.

Let the paste sit on the stains for at least 10 minutes, although it is best to leave it on for a few hours if possible.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse Thoroughly

Once the borax paste has had time to sit on the stains, it is time to scrub and rinse the sink thoroughly. Using a soft brush or sponge, gently scrub the stained areas to lift the rust or stubborn stains.

Be careful not to be too abrasive, as this can damage the porcelain. Rinse the kitchen sink thoroughly with water, ensuring all the borax paste and loosened stains are washed away.

Can you use bleach to clean your black porcelain kitchen sink?

Can you use bleach to clean your black porcelain kitchen sink

Using bleach to clean a black porcelain kitchen sink is not advisable. Bleach can potentially damage the color and finish of black porcelain and vintage or colored porcelain sinks.

White porcelain sinks can be cleaned thoroughly with bleach. But when using bleach-based products, you should exercise caution and discretion.

Can you use abrasive scouring pads on your black porcelain kitchen sink?

Using abrasive scouring pads on your black porcelain kitchen sink is not recommended. Abrasive tools like scouring pads and steel wool can potentially cause unsightly scratches on the sink’s surface.

These scratches can mar the appearance and finish of the black porcelain, leading to a dull and damaged sink.

Similarly, abrasive cleaners that contain harsh chemicals should also be avoided as they can stain, scratch, or harm the finish on porcelain sinks.

Keeping your black porcelain sink clean with gentle cleaning methods and non-abrasive tools is the best way to maintain its sleek and glossy appearance.

Maintain Your Black Porcelain Kitchen Sink in Pristine Condition


You can follow different cleaning methods to maintain the beauty and longevity of your black porcelain kitchen sink. Using liquid dishwashing detergent, baking soda, water, white vinegar, or a borax paste can effectively remove stains and keep your sink looking its best.

Avoid using bleach on black porcelain sinks, which can harm their color and finish. Also, do not use abrasive scouring pads and harsh cleaners that can scratch or damage the sink’s surface.

Regular cleaning and gentle care will ensure your black porcelain sink remains a stunning focal point in your kitchen for a long time.

How to Clean a Black Porcelain Kitchen Sink: 4 Effective Methods

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