Daily Use

• Your granite sink may include smooth, counterlike surfaces that are tempting to use as a cutting board. Routine contact with knife blades, however, can leave scratches and scores in your sink. It can also slowly dull your knives. Always place a plastic or wooden cutting board over the sink top before chopping. Avoid sharp, sudden impacts, such as dropping a metal pan or dish into the sink. It can scratch or chip the surface. Granite composite sinks are also heat-sensitive. Never place a hot pan or dish into the sink. Temperatures over 500 degrees Fahrenheit can melt or discolor the resin binder.
  
  

Maintenance Cleaning

• Clean your granite composite sink on a regular basis, using plenty of water and a non-abrasive or mildly abrasive cleaner such as baking soda. Never use a heavy-duty scouring pad, steel wool or abrasive cleaner on granite composite. These materials can create many fine scratches that encourage stains and discoloration. Avoid ammonia or strongly acidic cleansers, as these can etch the sink surface. After cleaning, rinse the sink well and wipe it dry using a soft, clean cloth. This discourages water spots and built-up soap scum.
  
  

Mineral Deposits

• In areas with hard water, your sink may develop a buildup of mineral deposits, such as lime scale. These deposits can dull or discolor your sink. They may also absorb color from beverages such as coffee, grape juice or wine, creating the appearance of a stain. Remove these mineral deposits using a mild acid, such as diluted lemon juice or vinegar. Rinse thoroughly after using acids to clean your sink. This reduces the risk of etching.
  
  

Stains

• Even the best cared-for granite composite sink may develop stains over time. Biologically activated laundry detergent or a specialty composite sink cleaner can remove these stains. For stubborn patches, CM StoneWorks recommends a soft scouring pad. Rub the stained area gently with this pad, using many different motion patterns to decrease the risk of scratching. For very stubborn stains, soak the area in a 50 percent chlorine bleach solution.