How to Remove Hard Water Stains from a Stainless Steel Sink

Hard water stains on a stainless steel sink are a common nuisance. They appear as white, crusty spots or a dull film left behind by mineral deposits like calcium and magnesium. If you have hard water, you've probably seen these stains build up around the drain or where water splashes and dries. The good news: you can remove them with common household supplies like white vinegar and baking soda, without harsh chemicals.

What to Do First

Before you start scrubbing, take a quick look at the stain. If it's a light, recent deposit, a simple vinegar rinse might do the trick. For older, crusty buildup, you'll need a paste and a little patience. Always test any cleaning method on a small, hidden area of the sink first to make sure it doesn't dull the finish.

Readers may also find How to Remove Dog Vomit from a Carpet: Fresh and Dried Stains, How to Remove Red Wine from a Linen Tablecloth: Fresh and Dried Stains, and How to Remove Permanent Marker from a Cotton Couch: Fresh and Dried Ink useful. For more stories like this, browse our Surface Safety section.

Method: White Vinegar and Baking Soda

This method works for both fresh and set-in hard water stains. The vinegar dissolves the minerals, and the baking soda provides gentle abrasion to lift them away.

1. Rinse the sink with warm water to remove loose debris.
2. Spray or pour white vinegar directly onto the stained areas. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the minerals.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the vinegar-soaked spots. It will fizz; that's normal.
4. Scrub gently with a soft sponge or cloth, working in the direction of the grain (if your sink has a brushed finish). Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads—they can scratch stainless steel.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
6. Dry the sink with a clean, soft towel to prevent new water spots.