What makes the brass plughole in kitchen sinks tarnish?

1. Exposure to moisture: The constant exposure to water and moisture in the kitchen environment accelerates the oxidation process of the brass plughole, leading to the formation of tarnish.

2. Chemicals and cleaning agents: The use of harsh cleaning chemicals and abrasive materials can damage the protective coating on the brass surface and make it more susceptible to tarnishing. Certain chemicals, like ammonia and chlorine, can react with the brass alloy and cause discoloration.

3. Variations in water quality: The presence of minerals and impurities in water, such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and chlorine, can contribute to the tarnishing process. Hard water regions, with higher mineral content, tend to accelerate tarnishing compared to soft water areas.

4. Air quality: The surrounding air quality in the kitchen can also affect the tarnishing rate of the brass plughole. Exposure to pollutants, like sulfur compounds, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide, can cause tarnishing by reacting with the brass surface.

5. Temperature fluctuations: Significant changes in temperature, such as exposure to hot water followed by cold water, can cause the brass to expand and contract, weakening the protective layer and making it prone to tarnishing.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help slow down tarnishing and maintain the shine of your brass plughole.