In the realm of kitchen appliances, nothing captures attention quite like glistening stainless steel.
This popular finish is striking, and elegant, and complements almost any kitchen color scheme.
However, the reality of everyday life soon sets in. Fingerprints, smudges, and the occasional spill or splash can dull the pristine shine of stainless steel.
But the good news is that as quickly as those surfaces get dirty, they can be restored to their original luster with a few effective methods for cleaning stainless steel appliances. With our trusted tips, you can keep your appliances looking shiny and new, tackling every inch of stainless steel, including those stubborn water spots.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your stainless steel
Maintaining the cleanliness of your stainless steel appliances is key to reducing the need for deep cleaning.
Follow these steps to keep them looking their best:
Wipe Down the Appliance: Use a microfiber cloth dampened with water to wipe down the stainless steel surface.
This should remove most smudges and water stains.
Dry and Polish: After wiping with a damp cloth, use a dry microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the surface.
This step helps prevent water spots. For extra shine, use a polishing rag to buff the stainless steel.
Use Dish Soap, if Necessary: If your stainless steel surfaces are particularly grimy, you can use a small amount of dish soap.
Apply a drop of dish soap on a cloth dampened with water, wipe down the surface, then follow up with a damp cloth (without dish soap). Finally, dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
Tackle tougher stains
To tackle tougher stains, you can try the following method using baking soda and vinegar:
Boil Vinegar and Soak Towel: Boil distilled white vinegar and soak a thick, clean towel in it.
Place the Towel on the Stain: Place the damp towel on the tough stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle baking soda on the stain, then gently scrub until the stain disappears. Wipe the area clean with water and dry it with a clean cloth.
If stains persist or you’re dealing with oxidation or rust, you may need to use a commercial stain removal product or a stainless-steel scratch-removal kit.
Read the instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
For daily cleaning, it’s recommended to wipe down your stainless steel appliances with a clean, soft cloth and hot water.
Weekly cleanings with an oil-based stainless-steel cleaner and polish can also help maintain their shine and reduce buildup.
Additional tips
Additional tips for cleaning stainless steel appliances include:
To remove fingerprints, use a soft cloth with Rubbing Alcohol and wipe over the stains.
Clean with the grain of the stainless steel to effectively remove dirt and avoid scratching the surface. For extra shine, apply a few drops of lemon oil or olive oil on a clean cloth and rub it on the surface once a month.
Avoid using this method on surfaces that conduct heat, such as ovens. By following these tips and incorporating routine cleaning into your maintenance, you can easily keep your stainless steel appliances sparkling and free from stains.
*The information is for reference only.
