How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Your stainless steel appliances may be a treasured part of your kitchen when they are clean and shiny. However, they can easily get grimy and become an eyesore. Handprints, water spots, food remnants and splatters are problematic.

Unfortunately, some common cleaning products will streak or dull stainless steel. How do you clean stainless steel appliances properly?

Why Stainless Steel Is Prone to Smudges and Streaks

Your fridge, stove, dishwasher and other stainless steel products are frequently used. Consider, for example, how many times someone opens the refrigerator door each day. Unlike granite counters, wood cabinets and other areas of a kitchen, stainless steel shows fingerprints, smudges and other grime very easily.

Cleaning the surface improperly, such as by using a circular motion or going against the grain, can cause streaks. While stainless steel requires regular attention and the right cleaning steps, it is easy to take care of it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

You can purchase a commercial stainless steel cleaner at local stores. Follow the directions on the label carefully. Always wipe the surface with the grain using a microfiber cloth.

However, you can avoid introducing chemicals in your kitchen and save money by using products that are likely already in your pantry using these steps.

• Pour undiluted white vinegar in a spray bottle.
• Spray the vinegar onto the appliance
• Using a microfiber cloth, wipe the appliance.
• Dab olive oil onto the cloth.
• Wipe the stainless steel with the grain until it is shiny and free of streaks.

You can also clean your appliances with these same steps using soapy water and baby oil as alternatives.

How to Remove Tough Stains and Scratches

While smudges and streaks are common with stainless steel appliances, you may have to deal with tough stains and scratches as well from time to time. With the right strategy, you can easily tackle this problem.

Create a loose paste using baking soda and water. Use a clean cloth to rub the paste onto the appliance. Then, combine mineral oil with vinegar. Use a second clean cloth to wipe down the appliance with this solution, rubbing with the grain.

Tips for Long-term Maintenance

Caring for your stainless steel appliances will help you to optimize their life and their appearance. Regular cleaning is a major aspect of maintenance.

You can minimize dirt and smudges by simply wiping them down with a microfiber cloth when you notice fingerprints and filth. It is easier to clean spills, splatters and other messes when they are still wet. Simply wipe off the mess with soapy water. Whe doing weekly or deep cleaning, clean the entire appliance.

Using the wrong products and techniques can ruin your appliances. Before cleaning stainless steel, read the manufacturer’s care instructions carefully. Never use abrasive cleaning products or scrubbers to clean stainless steel appliances. In addition, bleach, ammonia, oven cleaning products and cleaning wipes should not be used.

DIY Stainless Steel Cleaner Recipe

The best stainless steel cleaner is undiluted vinegar. Wipe the appliance with vinegar and a clean cloth. If you need more cleaning power, wipe the appliance with a baking soda and water paste before cleaning it with vinegar. You can complete the process using baby oil, mineral oil or olive oil to buff the surface to a beautiful shine.

FAQs

What Is the Best Thing to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances?

The best thing to clean your stainless steel appliances with is vinegar and olive oil. Using a spray bottle, apply the vinegar to the appliance. Wipe the appliance with a microfiber cloth. Then, dab olive oil onto the cloth. Rub the appliance with olive oil in the direction of the grain until all marks and streaks are gone.

How Do You Make Stainless Steel Look New Again?

Remove the dirt on stainless steel using either soapy water or vinegar. Use a soft cloth rather than an abrasive scrubber. Then, use oil to buff the stainless steel. Olive oil, mineral oil and baby oil work well. Buff the surface with the grain using a microfiber cloth.

Can I Use Clorox Wipes or Windex on Stainless Steel Appliances?

Windex and Clorox wipes should not be used on stainless steel appliances. These, along with abrasive cleaners, oven cleaners, steel wool, bleach and ammonia will damage the finish. Always read cleaning product labels and your appliances’ labels before using a new product.

Stainless steel, marble, granite, leather and other materials each must be cleaned using the right combination of techniques and supplies to avoid damaging them. Keeping track of how to clean the many materials and surfaces in your home is a challenge, but you don’t need to worry about damaging them when you let our diligent cleaners do the work for you. To learn more about our commercial cleaning services, contact us today.