How to Get Scratches out of a Stainless Steel Sink

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Stainless steel sinks are prone to damage such as scratches. To remove scratches, you can use a commercial scratch remover, a cleaning product, or rough cleaning pads. Make sure to move in the direction of a sink's grain when buffing out a scratch.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Using Commercial Scratch Removers

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fine scratches can usually be rubbed out with a cleaning product or an abrasive pad. However, very deep scratches that are obvious to see require scratch removes. You can find scratch removers for stainless steel sinks online or at local hardware stores. [1]
    • Check your sink's manufacturer's instructions if you still have them. This may suggest a scratch remover that works for your sink.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have the manufacturer's instructions, these should tell you the direction of your stainless steel sink's grain. You can also look at the sink closely to see which direction the lines of the sink run. [2]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Stain removers should come with grit pads. Refer to the product's instructions and spray on the appropriate amount of scratch remover to the pad. Apply the remover to the scratch, moving in the direction of your sink's grain. [3]
    • Apply a light amount of pressure. Apply enough pressure that the scratch comes off the sink, but not so much that you end up damaging the sink by rubbing the grit in too deep.
    • A powdered scratch remover should be mixed with water first. Mix 2 tablespoons of the powder with 4 or 5 drops of water, then rub it on the scratch with a damp microfiber cloth.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The scratch remover kit should contain a second, lighter pad. After most of the scratch is out, switch to the lighter pad. Use this to buff out the remainder of the scratch. If the kit calls for water, add water as you buff out the remaining scratch. [4]
    • Your kit should provide more specific instructions on how to buff out the scratch and when to switch the pads you're using.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    After you've buffed out the scratch, use a microfiber cloth to buff out the remainder of the remover. Wipe down the surface to rinse out the remainder of the scratch remover. Use water as necessary to completely remove the scratch remover. [5]
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using a Cleaning Product

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/af\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fine scratches that are not very noticeable can be removed using a cleaning product. Dish soaps, such as Ajax and comet, can be used to buff out fine scratches. You can also use powder stainless steel sink cleaner. [6]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use either a cloth or a sponge to work the soap or powder-based cleaning solution into the scratch in your sink. Move in the direction of the grain as you apply the cleaner. Apply enough cleaner to completely cover the scratch. [7]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The amount of time this takes varies on the type of cleaner. The product should dry on until it has a hazy texture. [8]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a rag or paper towel to wipe off the product. If you were successful, the product have lifted the scratch from the stainless steel. [9]
    • If the scratch was not removed, try a stronger product like a scratch remover.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Buffing Out the Scratch

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-10.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Either low grit sandpaper or scotch bright pads are abrasive enough to remove a scratch from a stainless steel sink. Pick up sandpaper or pads at a department or hardware store if you want to use this method to remove a scratch. [10]
    • Sandpaper is usually the best option for very deep, noticeable scratches while bright pads work better for light scratches.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-11.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Rub the pad or sandpaper against the scratch, going in the direction of the sink's grain. Use even, long streaks as you buff out the stain. Keep going until the scratch fades away. [11]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-12.jpg\/aid7256-v4-728px-Get-Scratches-out-of-a-Stainless-Steel-Sink-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You need to be applying pressure evenly across your sandpaper or pad for this method to work. When using sandpaper, it can help to wrap your sandpaper around a wood block to help distribute the pressure evenly. [12]
    4. Advertisement


Video

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can you get scratches out of stainless steel?
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    James Sears leads the customer happiness team at Neatly, a group of cleaning gurus based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. James and the team have nine years of experience and offer green cleaning, interior and exterior window washing, and general apartment cleaning services. He provides transformative cleaning experiences by reducing clutter and renewing your home environment. James is a Trustee Scholar at the University of Southern California.
    James Sears
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    Yes, household items like toothpaste can buff out fine scratches. Apply the cleaner and buff in the direction of the grain. If you go against the grain, you'll only make the scratch worse.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
  • Question
    How do I clean the griddle on a gas stainless steel stove?
    Community Answer
    You can use a cleaning solution that can be found at various stores. Make sure that the griddle is off while you are cleaning it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 0
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Clean a Ceramic Sink Without Chemicals
      How to
      Remove Rust from Metal
      How to
      Remove a Dent from a Stainless Steel Refrigerator
      How to
      Polish Stainless Steel
      How to
      Polish Gold
      How to
      Clean a Pipe with Alcohol and Salt
      How to
      Clean Oxidized Aluminum
      How to
      Clean Chrome and Remove Rust Without Expensive Cleaners
      How to
      Clean Oxidized Silver
      How to
      Polish Metal
      How to
      Remove Odor from Metal
      How to
      Clean Tarnished Metal
      How to
      Clean Sterling Silver with Baking Soda and Aluminum
      How to
      Clean Stainless Steel Cutlery
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/#.WRXzM7vytPM
      2. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/#.WRogV4fNJPN
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/#.WRXzM7vytPM
      4. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/#.WRXzM7vytPM
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/#.WRXzM7vytPM
      6. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      7. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      8. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      9. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      1. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      2. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/
      3. ↑ http://removeandreplace.com/2014/05/01/best-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-stainless-steel/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To get fine scratches out of a stainless steel sink, use a cloth or sponge to work some dish soap, Ajax, or Comet into the scratch, making sure to work in the same direction as the grain of the sink. Next, let the product dry on until it has a hazy texture. Then, wipe the product off with a rag or paper towel. For deep scratches, rub either a low grit sandpaper or Scotch Bright Pads against the scratch, going in the direction of the sink’s grain. Use even, long strokes as you buff out the scratch. To learn how to buff out a scratch with a scratch remover kit, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 365,322 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Mar 16, 2018

        "Clear easy to follow instructions!"
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement