7 Important Tips to Protect Your Fireclay Sink
Fireclay is strong, durable, and resistant to stains and scratches, but it’s not invincible. Use these tips to protect your fireclay sink and keep it looking great for years.
Read The Manual
The best place to find advice about how to protect your fireclay sink is in the manual.
Any quality sink should come with a manual full of important information, tips, tricks, and directions. Don’t just throw that literature away! Read it.
There may be sink-specific info that you need to know, or there may be certain requirements you need to follow in order to be able to be eligible for a warranty, should an unforeseen problem arise.
Invest in a Sink Grid
When you purchase a new sink, it may include a metal grid that is intended to protect the sink’s bottom from scratches and marks.
If your sink does not come with its own grid (or if you don’t like dealing with the metal), this silicone model from Lowes [click here] is very popular and appropriate for all types of sinks even though it was designed specifically for a VIGO sink.
Just be sure to check your measurements as it is intended for a 30-inch sink.
Avoid harsh cleaners and metal scouring pads
The best way to protect your sink from stains by cleaning it daily with a mild soap, followed by a once-over with a soft cloth to dry it.
If you do end up with any unsightly marks, try using a mild cleaning agent like baking soda or Bar Keeper’s Friend on the problem areas.
Run Cool Water When Pouring Boiling Water
Yes, most fireclay sinks are touted as being heat-resistant, but why take the chance?
It is easy to flip the cold water on before you drain your pasta – or undertake any other task that involves pouring boiling water down the drain.
Cracks due to pouring boiling water into a fireclay sink are not widely reported, but we have seen it happen to some fireclay owners. Better safe than sorry, we think.
Don’t set hot pans in the sink
If you get a silicone sink grid, this tip can be crossed off, since silicone is heat resistant to very high temperatures and it should act as a barrier between your pan and the sink’s surface.
Similar to the last tip, because fireclay sinks claim to be heat resistant, this is optional – but again, why tempt fate? We would rather be gentle with our sinks and have them last for years.
Keep Dirty Dishes out of your Sink
This is especially important if there is anything on the dishes that can stain the sink, but even if there isn’t, dirty dishes lead to food and other yuck adhering to your sink’s surface.
Either store your dirty dishes up on the counter, wash them right away, or get them hidden in the dishwasher.
Clean Your Sink Regularly
The best way to keep your fireclay sink clean is to wipe it down with a soapy dishcloth or sponge and then dry with a soft towel each time you use the sink.
Wait a minute – every time? Yep. The thing is, it should only take 30 seconds to do this, and a little bit of cleaning each time you use the sink is going to go a long way towards maintaining cleanliness.
Plus, it is so much easier to do a quick 30-second clean than an intense scrub down and stain removal.
Conclusion
Fireclay sinks require regular care and a little extra pampering, but in exchange, they will provide your kitchen with a lifetime of beauty.