Sink Maintenance and Cleaning: Expert Care for Kitchens

When you’re managing a commercial kitchen, whether it’s a bustling café, a busy restaurant, or a large-scale catering operation, you know how critical every part of your kitchen is to your success. One of the most important but often overlooked areas is your kitchen sink. 

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your sink is essential to keep your kitchen running smoothly, uphold hygiene standards, and prevent future plumbing problems that can be costly. I can attest that investing in professional sink care saves you a significant amount of time and money, while keeping your kitchen looking and working at its best.

Why Professional Sink Maintenance and Cleaning Matters

Your kitchen sink is the hub where washing, rinsing, and disposing of food waste happen every day. Over time, grease, food particles, and grime build up in the sink basin, drains, and pipes. This buildup can cause slow drainage, unpleasant odours, and even blockages that disrupt your kitchen operations. 

I’ve seen kitchens where neglecting sink maintenance led to emergency callouts, costly repairs, and even temporary shutdowns. The good news is that you can avoid these problems by having professional cleaning and maintenance done regularly.

At All Needs Plumbing, we use specialised equipment and eco-friendly cleaning products designed for commercial kitchens. Our team removes tough grease and grime that regular cleaning can’t touch. We also sanitise surfaces to meet health and safety standards, ensuring your kitchen stays hygienic and your sink looks spotless. This level of care extends the life of your sink and plumbing, saving you from expensive replacements.

Daily and Weekly Care

While professional cleaning is key, there are simple daily habits and weekly routines that help keep your sink in better shape between our visits.

Pro-Tip: Clean your sink thoroughly with warm water and a soft cloth every time you use it. This prevents food particles and minerals in water from settling and causing stains or water spots. Drying your sink also helps prevent the growth of mould or mildew around the edges and faucet bases.

Deep Cleaning: What We Do Differently

When we perform a deep clean on your kitchen sink, we go beyond the surface. First, we clear away all food debris and residues that can cause clogs or smells. Then, we apply specialised degreasers that break down tough grease and grime that regular cleaning can’t touch. We scrub every nook and cranny, including faucet bases, drain openings, and the underside of the sink rim where dirt often hides.

We rinse and sanitise the sink thoroughly after cleaning it to eliminate bacteria and germs. This is especially important in commercial kitchens, where cleanliness is crucial. We also inspect your drains and plumbing connections during the process to spot any early signs of leaks or blockages. 

Once everything is clean and clear, we dry and polish your sink. For stainless steel sinks, we use a food-safe oil to restore shine and create a protective layer that helps prevent water spots and fingerprints.

This deep cleaning not only makes your sink look better, but it also makes it last longer, which keeps your plumbing running smoothly.

Pro-Tip: Once a week, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda all over your sink’s surface. A soft cloth or soap should then be used to scrub the sink to remove dirt and stains gently. After that, spray white vinegar over the baking soda. 

You’ll see it fizz as it works to break down grease and deodorise the area. Leave it for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Although it is gentle on your sink, this natural way of cleaning it will keep it smelling clean.

To keep your sink clean, these easy steps can be helpful, but they won't replace the need for professional maintenance. For commercial kitchens, regular professional cleaning every few months is essential to remove deep-set grease and prevent build-up that can lead to blockages or odours.

Preventing Damage and Clogs

One of the biggest causes of sink problems is what gets poured down the drain. Avoid dumping fats, oils, or large food scraps into your sink. These substances solidify inside your pipes and cause blockages that no amount of boiling water will fix. Instead, make sure grease and food waste go into the bin or compost.

Speaking of boiling water, many people ask if it’s safe to pour boiling water down the drain. The answer is yes, but with caution. Boiling water can help dissolve grease and flush away food particles in metal pipes. 

However, if your plumbing includes PVC pipes or older materials, excessive boiling water can soften or damage them over time. When you’re unsure, it’s best to leave drain clearing to professionals like us who have the right tools and know-how.

Also, avoid harsh chemical cleaners, such as bleach or ammonia. These can damage your sink’s finish and corrode your pipes. We use eco-friendly, commercial-grade products that clean powerfully without harming your kitchen or the environment.

FAQs About Kitchen Sink Maintenance and Cleaning

How do I clean and deodorise my kitchen sink?

For a thorough clean and deodorise, professional service is your best bet. But in between, rinse your sink with warm water regularly and use baking soda with vinegar to neutralise odours and break down grime. This keeps your sink smelling fresh and looking clean.

What can I use to stop my sink from smelling?

Boiling water poured down the drain flushes away food residue that causes smells. Grinding citrus peels in your disposal also naturally freshens the drain. Still, persistent odours usually mean it’s time for a professional clean.

Is boiling water down the drain foul?

In moderation, boiling water is safe for metal pipes and helps clear grease. However, too much can damage plastic pipes or older plumbing systems. If you’re unsure about your system, it’s safer to call us.

What is the best natural cleaner for sinks?

A great natural cleaner that eliminates odours and lifts stains is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Lemon with salt works well for polishing and brightening your sink surface.

How to deep clean your sink?

Remove all dishes and debris. Sprinkle baking soda, scrub gently, then spray vinegar. Let the mixture fizz, rinse thoroughly, dry with a cloth, and polish if needed. For commercial kitchens, professional deep cleaning ensures every corner is hygienic and grease-free.

What if I want to learn more about kitchen sink maintenance and cleaning?

We can ensure that your commercial kitchen operates smoothly at all times. At All Needs Plumbing, we don't charge a fee for calls, we offer same-day service 24/7, and seniors can save 15%. Plus, if you need a new hot water system, we’ll give you $150 off. 

Don't worry about your sink. Let us do it for you so you can focus on more important things. Contact us today and experience expert kitchen sink maintenance and cleaning tailored for your business.

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