Clean a Faucet
Sink faucets often collect more grime than sink basins. They are harder to clean because of their finish and awkward shape. A dull faucet, even if sanitized, appears dirty and gives the impression of an unwashed sink. Scrubbing a faucet so it shines is not just about effort. Using the proper products and techniques to clean a dirty faucet are important to prevent scratching and compromising the fixture's finish. Use these steps for cleaning a faucet.
Contents
Steps
Basic Faucet Cleaning Tips
- Determine the type of finish on your faucet.
- Various faucet finishes will require individualized cleaning if basic cleaning does not work. The specialized products or techniques used on a chrome faucet, for example, will not be effective on a faucet of a different finish.
- Mix 2 cups (0.47 L) of warm water with 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) of dishwashing liquid in a small bowl.
- Soak a sponge or washrag into the mixture and scrub the faucet gently.
- Make sure to scrub the base, handle and neck thoroughly.
- Cover the bristles of an old toothbrush with baking soda.
- Use the toothbrush to scrub areas of the faucet that are particularly grimy with hard mineral deposits.
- Adding a splash of water to the toothbrush might help.
- Cut off a 12 inch (30.48 cm) piece of dental floss and place the string in between the cracks of the faucet.
- Dirt and soap scum collect in these crevices.
- Rinse the faucet with cold, clean water.
- Dry and shine the faucet with a micro-fiber cloth.
Cleaning a Chrome or Nickel Faucet
- Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar.
- Spray the entire fixture, covering the chrome or nickel with the liquid.
- Allow the vinegar to sit on the faucet for 5 to 10 minutes.
- The vinegar will dissolve the scum.
- Wipe the faucet with a dry cloth.
Cleaning a Copper or Stainless Steel Faucet
- Fill a spray bottle with regular cola.
- Spray the faucet and let it sit for a couple minutes.
- Rinse the faucet with water and gently rub a wet cloth over the surface.
- Cola products are known to be successful copper cleaners because of the acid in them.
- Dry the entire faucet with a clean cloth.
Cleaning a Brass or Bronze Faucet
- Mix 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of salt (14.3 g) and 1 tablespoon (14.3 g) of all-purpose flour in a small bowl.
- Wet a clean cloth and dip it into the mixture.
- Apply the cloth to the faucet.
- Use a gentle buffing motion rather than an intense scrubbing motion. Brass and bronze will scratch easily.
- Dry the faucet with a cloth.
Tips
- It's common to forget the faucet screen when scrubbing the fixture. This component gets especially filled with scum.
- Using a mild glass cleaning on the faucet after cleaning and before drying can give the fixture a brighter shine.
Warnings
- If scrubbing with a sponge, use the soft side to avoid scratching the finish.
- Do not use an abrasive cleaning product on your faucet before you study your manufacturer's warranty. Performing intense cleaning that can lead to damage might void your warranty.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Sponge
- Toothbrush
- Dishwashing liquid
- Baking soda
- Dental floss
- Micro-fiber cloth
- White vinegar
- Cola
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
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