Many of us automatically reach for bleach when tackling large (or particularly nasty) cleaning projects. It’s pretty universal – use it to brighten whites in the laundry, tackle stains, and disinfect various surfaces. But is it safe for the kitchen sink? Not always.
So what should you use to disinfect your kitchen sink if bleach is off the table? Let’s find out.
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How Often Should I Disinfect My Sink?
Ideally, you should disinfect your sink at least once a week. The kitchen sink is a breeding ground for germs, as it often contains food scraps and moisture. So, to keep unwanted visitors at bay (no thanks, bacteria!), disinfect your sink at least once per week.
Is Bleach Bad To Use On A Sink?
Bleach has its place in the world of cleaning, but in many cases, it’s not the ideal choice for kitchen sinks. While it’s undoubtedly a strong disinfectant, it’s unsafe to use in specific scenarios.
For example, if your home runs on a septic tank, using bleach in your sink isn’t a good idea, as it’ll go down your drain. Septic systems operate with a finite balance of bacteria that help keep everything functioning normally. Adding bleach can kill these bacteria, causing disruptions in the system’s function.
Aside from this, using bleach on your kitchen sink may damage the surface, including the finish (as applicable). Many manufacturers warn against using bleach on the sink, and some even say you’ll void your warranty if you use harsh chemicals (like bleach) on your sink.
So, in general, it’s best to avoid using bleach on your sink, especially if you have a septic system. Of course, diluted amounts may not hurt anything, but we still wouldn’t chance it.
How Can I Disinfect My Kitchen Without Bleach?
While bleach is a powerful cleaner, it’s not ideal for every cleaning purpose. Sometimes, it can do more harm than good, so it might not be your best bet. If you need to disinfect your sink with something other than bleach, try the following methods.
Note: Empty your sink and clean it before disinfecting it. Remove all dishes (and other items), wipe the surface with soapy water, and rinse it. Now, you’re ready to disinfect!
Vinegar
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White vinegar is an excellent, all-around cleaner. Use it to scrub your counters, clean your bathroom, and lift stains from clothes – it does it all! But does white vinegar disinfect sinks? Yep – it can!
If you’re not thrilled about using chemical cleaners to disinfect your sink, white vinegar is an excellent alternative. You can even pre-make the solution for easy disinfecting each week. Here’s what you’ll need:
- White vinegar
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Funnel (as needed)
Add one part white vinegar and one part water to a spray bottle. Use a funnel to help guide the liquid into the bottle. Shake the bottle to combine the mixture, and it’s ready to use!
To disinfect your sink. Spray the solution on the surface of your kitchen sink and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe the sink with a soft microfiber cloth, and tada! Your sink is disinfected!
Lemon Juice
Have a few lemons on hand? While you could use them to make deliciously fresh lemonade, you can also use them to disinfect your sink. Lemon juice has antibacterial qualities that aid in disinfecting your sink, so this is another way to tackle the task.
To use lemon juice for this process, simply apply the juice of a lemon to the surface of the sink. One of the easiest ways to apply the juice is by slicing each lemon in half and rubbing the cut side over the sink’s surface. Ensure you coat the entire surface, then let it sit for five to ten minutes.
Next, use hot water to rinse the residue and dry the surface with a soft towel.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Aside from disinfecting injuries, hydrogen peroxide is excellent for disinfecting your kitchen sink. Simply spritz the liquid on a clean sink to disinfect the surface, and wipe away the residue with a clean cloth.
If you have a septic system, you can safely use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant. In short, septic systems function with aerobic bacteria, which require oxygen to thrive. Since hydrogen peroxide doesn’t pull oxygen from the system, it doesn’t cause any harm.
DIY All-Purpose Cleaner
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Make cleaning and disinfecting your kitchen sink even easier with a DIY all-purpose cleaner. This cleaner is easy to make, smells great, and is easy to use. Make it ahead of time and store it under your sink for quick and convenient cleaning. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Water
- White vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Essential oils (optional)
- Spray bottle
Add one cup of each white vinegar and water to a large spray bottle. Pour in ½ cup of lemon juice and swirl the mixture to combine. For a pleasant scent (aside from lemon), add 15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender, citrus, and eucalyptus essential oils can offer a lovely, fresh scent to your cleaning mixture.
Of course, you don’t have to add essential oils if you prefer the lemon scent – it’s up to you. If you add essential oils, swirl the mixture to combine.
When you’re ready to clean your sink, simply spray the surface with the solution. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe away the residue with a soft cloth.
Note: Don’t use this cleaner on granite, marble, or other natural stone sinks/countertops. It contains acidic ingredients that can damage the finish of these materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Often Should I Clean My Sink?
At the minimum, you should clean your sink at least once a week. Ideally, you should clean your sink every day, especially with sinks prone to staining. Natural stone sinks and lighter-colored fireclay sinks can be prone to staining, so leaving foods and drinks on the surface could result in discolored splotches.
Even if your sink isn’t prone to stains, it’s best to wipe it out at the end of the day. This doesn’t mean you need to deep clean the sink daily- just wipe it down to prevent bacteria growth and stains.
What Should I Use For Cleaning My Sink Daily?
For most sinks, manufacturers recommend against using harsh chemicals for cleaning. These chemicals can damage the sink’s surface, causing discoloration and other damage, so it’s usually best to avoid them.
So, for daily cleaning, it’s best to stick with mild cleaners. Use a soft sponge saturated in warm, soapy water (use mild soap) to wipe the surface of the sink. Rinse it with warm water to remove residual suds, then dry it with a soft towel.
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Kitchens
