If your kitchen sink smells bad or looks dull no matter how much you scrub, you’re not alone. Every San Diego homeowner eventually asks the same question: how to clean kitchen sink properly so it stays shiny, fresh, and odor-free.

The truth is, food particles, grease, and bacteria build up fast. If left unchecked, your sink can become one of the dirtiest spots in your home—even worse than your toilet handle! But don’t worry—this step-by-step guide will help you get your sink sparkling again and keep it that way.

Table Of Contents

• Why Cleaning Your Kitchen Sink Matters
• How To Clean Kitchen Sink: Step-By-Step Guide
• How To Clean Kitchen Sink Drain And Pipe
• How To Clean Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
• How To Remove Kitchen Sink Drain Smell
• Keep Your Sink Fresh Longer

Why Cleaning Your Kitchen Sink Matters

Think about everything that passes through your sink—raw food, soap residue, grease, even bacteria from rinsed plates. Over time, these create layers of grime and odor that regular rinsing won’t fix.

That’s why understanding how to clean kitchen sink effectively is the key to a truly clean kitchen.

How To Clean Kitchen Sink: Step-By-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for a deep clean:

1. Rinse With Hot Water – Run 2–3 cups (about 500–700 ml) of hot water to loosen grime.
2. Scrub The Basin – Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of baking soda directly into the sink. Add a few drops of dish soap, then scrub with a soft sponge in circular motions for 2–3 minutes.
3. Disinfect Naturally – Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray generously and let sit for 5 minutes before wiping clean.
4. Polish And Dry – Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry using a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

Repeat this process two to three times per week for best results.

How To Clean Kitchen Sink Drain And Pipe

Even when your sink looks clean, unpleasant smells can come from the drain or pipe. Here’s how to clean kitchen sink drain and keep your plumbing fresh:

1. Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow with 1 cup (240 ml) of white vinegar.
3. Let it fizz for about 10 minutes.
4. Flush with 1 liter (about 4 cups) of boiling water to dissolve buildup and remove odors.

For deeper cleaning, learn how to clean kitchen sink drain pipe by removing the P-trap (the curved pipe under the sink). Place a bucket underneath, unscrew the trap carefully, and rinse it with warm soapy water.

How To Clean Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

A stainless steel sink looks great when it’s shiny—but it shows every water spot and fingerprint. Here’s how to clean stainless steel kitchen sink without scratching it:

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of baking soda around the sink basin.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dish soap and gently scrub using a non-abrasive sponge.
3. Rinse with 2 cups of warm water, then dry completely.
4. For extra shine, apply ½ teaspoon of olive oil on a soft cloth and buff the surface.

Avoid bleach or steel wool, as they can damage the finish.

How To Clean Kitchen Sink Drain Smell

If your sink still smells after cleaning, try this deodorizing method:

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda followed by ½ cup of lemon juice into the drain.
2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Rinse with 4 cups of boiling water.
4. Drop a few lemon peels or 2 tablespoons of coarse salt down the drain and run cold water for 30 seconds to keep it smelling fresh.

This method helps neutralize odors and maintains a pleasant citrus scent.

Keep Your Sink Fresh Longer

Now that you know how to clean kitchen sink, here are a few easy habits to keep it spotless:

• Rinse the sink with hot water after washing dishes.
• Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of baking soda weekly to absorb odors.
• Always dry the sink after use to prevent hard-water stains.

These small habits go a long way in keeping your kitchen clean and odor-free.

Need Help? Let The Pros Handle It

Sometimes, even your best effort can’t get rid of stubborn buildup or odors. That’s when calling in a trusted professional makes all the difference.

At Green Frog Cleaning, we provide detailed home cleaning services across San Diego—including deep cleaning your kitchen sink, counters, and appliances. Our licensed and insured team uses eco-friendly methods to make your home look and feel its best.

Ready to enjoy a spotless, fresh-smelling kitchen?
Get A Free Quote Today and let Green Frog Cleaning bring the sparkle back to your home.