How to clean stainless steel

Stainless remains popular, despite the extra work required to keep it looking good

Stainless steel appliances remain popular in American kitchens. In fact, stainless appliances outsell white and black kitchen appliances, with dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators boasting the stainless look in a big way. (One exception is the top-freezer refrigerator category—most of those sold are white.)

“Stainless appliances have increased in popularity over the past six years,” says Jill Notini, spokeswoman for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.

But there is a downside to some stainless steel appliances: They’re like magnets for fingerprints, smudges, water spots, and streaks. That means a lot of cleaning time to keep your appliances looking their shiny best. I know how much work it takes firsthand: I have to regularly clean my stainless steel range with an all-in-one stainless cleaner—though I draw the line at spending more time cleaning the range than cooking with it.

The Basics on Cleaners for Stainless Steel
Avoid using harsh abrasives, scouring powders, steel wool, bleach, and ammonia, all of which can damage the finish.

Always check the owner’s manuals and manufacturers’ websites for other cleaners to avoid. Some manufacturers advise against using glass cleaner on stainless steel, for example. And Samsung even recommends you not use a grout cleaner with muriatic acid on the tile floor in your kitchen because the fumes from the grout cleaner can harm stainless steel appliance finishes.

Here’s more advice on how to clean stainless steel appliances from Nancy Bock of the American Cleaning Institute.

If you’re shopping for new kitchen gear, see our buying guide and ratings for dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators.

Stainless Steel Cleaning Tips

Step 1: Dip a soft cloth in warm water mixed with a mild dish detergent. Wipe the surface, rinse the cloth and wipe again, then dry with a towel to prevent water spots.

Step 2: If you still see fingerprints, spray a glass cleaner onto a soft cloth and wipe fingerprints away.

Step 3: To remove baked-on food and grease, make a paste of baking soda and warm water. Gently rub onto the surface using a soft cloth or sponge. Wipe with a clean wet cloth and towel dry. For scratches and stains, use a stainless steel cleaner and apply to the area, following directions. Rinse with a clean damp cloth, then dry.

Shying Away From Stainless?
If having to clean stainless steel lacks appeal, check out other finish options, such as that classic, white.

From sinks to kitchen surfaces, here’s how to get it sparkling again.

Whether you’ve opted for sleek stainless steel surfaces in your kitchen, a shiny sink in the bathroom or even just own a few stainless steel utensils, you probably have more of this metal in your home than you realise.

But, as anyone who finds themselves with a tea-stained spoon or surface covered in spills will know, it can be difficult to figure out the best way to clean stainless steel without damaging it. In fact, research by End of Tenancy Cleaning found nearly 19,000 of us are Googling how to clean stainless steel each month!

The good news is, it’s easier than you think. As a rule of thumb, use gentle cleaners and minimal force, as more abrasive cleaners can damage steel surfaces easily. Here’s our expert guide to cleaning household objects that are commonly made from steel.

Sinks

Wipe with a damp cloth and washing-up liquid solution or an anti-bacterial spray. If a more thorough clean is needed, use a neat multi-purpose cleaner, like the Method All Purpose Surface Cleaner Lavender. Rinse and dry.

If you live in a hard water area, use a limescale cleaner once a week. The Viakal Limescale Remover Spray is a GHI favourite.

Spray a solution of white vinegar – you can refill an old trigger spray bottle once it’s been thoroughly rinsed – on to a stainless-steel hob and let it work on the grease for a few minutes before wiping the gunk away with a sponge.

If you’re battling with a protein-based food spill (such as milk or egg) on a stainless-steel hob, dip a piece of kitchen towel or an old cloth into a solution of biological laundry detergent and lay this on the stain. The enzymes in the detergent will help to break it down.

Lift, then use a sponge to loosen the deposit, repeating if necessary. Always remember to allow your hob to cool fully before cleaning it.

Surfaces

To clean stainless steel surfaces, wash with a solution of washing up liquid and dry with a soft cloth. Don’t use any abrasive cream cleaners.

If you just want to remove finger marks, put a dab of baby oil or rinse aid on a clean cloth and rub the whole surface.

Appliances

Kettles: clean the exterior of metal kettles with soapy water and buff with a microfibre cloth.
Toasters and sandwich makers: turn off and unplug the appliance, before wiping down with a damp cloth while it’s still slightly warm to remove any crumbs, oily residue and recently spilt ingredients before they solidify. Take a kitchen sponge and a small amount of warm, soapy water and firmly wipe the surface again, gently rubbing at hard-to-budge food residue.
Fridges and freezers: don’t overlook areas outside the fridge such as the handle and door surround, where germs can build up through frequent contact with hands. If you have a fridge-freezer with the freezer at the bottom, use the crevice nozzle of your vacuum cleaner to remove food crumbs that have collected in the folds of the freezer door seal. Alternatively, use a stiff washing up brush to dislodge them. Run the corner of a linen or cotton tea towel dipped in Milton Sterilising Fluid along the folds for a hygienic clean and use a fresh corner of the towel to dry the door seal afterwards.

For stuck-on stains, allow the pan to cool, then fill with water and add a dishwasher tablet or 1tbsp biological washing powder (biological detergent has enzymes that are specifically designed to tackle food-based stains).
Put the pan back on the hob and bring to the boil.
Leave to simmer for around 10min, and the burnt bits will simply lift away, leaving your pan as good as new.
Repeat as necessary, then wash thoroughly as normal. You can also use this method for hob-safe roasting tins, too.

Cutlery

Remove stains by rubbing with a cloth soaked in vinegar or lemon juice, then rinse thoroughly.

Stainless-steel knives are more prone to corroding than stainless-steel forks or spoons. This is because in order to achieve a lasting, sharp edge, the steel used in the knife blade must be much harder than that used for other cutlery. This results in it having reduced resistance to corroding. To keep your chopping knives in tip-top condition, don’t leave them immersed in water for long periods and always hand wash, then dry them thoroughly with a tea towel.

GHI TIP: Polish stainless steel cutlery occasionally with a proprietary stainless-steel cleaner to maintain a mirror-like finish. Wash thoroughly after polishing.

If the outside of your bin is matt brushed stainless steel, we recommend you clean it with a microfibre cloth such as an e-cloth and a glass cleaner.

Say goodbye to streaks and smudges.

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As a new homeowner who has never had any stainless-steel appliances, I wasn’t properly prepared for the challenge of keeping them clean. My journey to a smudge-free refrigerator began by simply purchasing a variety of cleaning products labeled “stainless-steel cleaner.” However, I quickly learned that most of them don’t work. They create streaks, don’t clean anything and often left my refrigerator looking like a crime scene.

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The woman cleaning surface of inox refrigerator with pink rag and spray.

Photo by: ©

That’s when I decided to get serious and figure out this stainless-steel cleaning challenge once and for all. After quite a bit of research, both online and on my fridge, I’ve finally cracked the code.

I don’t want you to suffer like I did, so here’s everything you need to know about keeping your stainless-steel appliances sparkling and streak-free.

THE BASICS

Stainless steel is more of a challenge to keep clean because it shows fingerprints and can easily look streaky. Because of this, it’s very important to move your cloth in one direction and go with the grain when you clean. If you’re not sure which direction you should go, start in a small area and test things out. I find that a clean microfiber cloth works best, though you can also use paper towels.

You should also remember that there are different types of stainless steel. You might need to do a bit of experimenting before you hit on exactly what works best for your specific appliance. In fact, if you have several stainless-steel appliances, each one might require a slightly different cleaning routine.

There are also some major “don’ts” when it comes to cleaning stainless steel:

Avoid using steel wool or any other abrasive sponges or scrubber pads.
Don’t use any chlorine-based cleaner or anything with chloride in it.
Don’t use an oven cleaner.
If your tap water is harsh, it might leave spots or stains.

How to Clean Major Appliances

Go deep with these cleaning tips for your dishwasher, fridge and more.

Here’s the right way to do it, plus an incredibly easy way to stop streaks.

Need to know how to clean stainless steel appliances? We’ve got you covered, plus tips on what not to do, and how to avoid those unsightly streaks.

Stainless steel is a durable surface for appliances that brings a modern aesthetic to any kitchen. Although it’s tough as nails, your sleek stainless steel fridge, microwave, or stove can look unsightly when it’s covered in fingerprints and smudges. Fortunately, it’s also easy to clean and you really do not need specialty cleaners to do it. Follow these easy cleaning tips to get your stainless steel appliances looking new again.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

Cleaning stainless steel surfaces really requires just a bit of elbow grease. You can use specialty stainless steel cleaners to quickly wipe away fingerprints and other oily residues if you like, but there are also DIY cleaners you can make with pantry items that work just as well.

Before you begin, it’s important to understand the “don’ts” of cleaning stainless steel. Common mistakes when it comes to cleaning stainless steel include:

Using abrasive cleaners. Although it’s a durable surface, stainless steel does scratch easily. Abrasive cleaners, even natural ones like baking soda, are designed to scour a surface in order to remove dirt and are more likely to damage your stainless steel.

Using steel wool or abrasive cleaning pads. Like abrasive cleaners, abrasive cleaning pads and steel wool will scratch the grain of the steel and make your appliances appear dull. Even a paper towel can be too rough, so go with a gentle microfiber cloth instead.

All-Purpose Microfiber Cloths, 3 for $9.95 from Grove Collaborative

A soft cloth that’s still effective.

Using bleach. Bleach is great for whitening and disinfecting surfaces. It is not made for use on stainless steel surfaces. Although it may not be noticeable at first, bleach will remove the finish of stainless steel over time.

Letting dirt and grime sit. Allowing dirt and grime to sit on the surface of stainless steel will make it harder to remove later. Dried messes require more scrubbing, which may lead to scratches on the surface. Wiping up messes as soon as they occur will save you cleaning time and minimizes the chance of accidentally scratching the stainless steel.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Now that you know how not to clean stainless steel, you’ll be happy to hear that cleaning it properly is relatively easy. Forget those expensive commercial cleaners and make your own. Here are a few items that you can use to make your own stainless steel cleaning products without harsh chemicals. You will need:

1. For light, everyday cleaning, dilute white vinegar in a 1:2 ratio with water. Place the diluted vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray a dry microfiber cloth with the vinegar solution (or you can use ammonia or vinegar-free window and glass cleaner, such as Windex) and then wipe the surface clean.

2. For heavier, stuck-on grime, mix one teaspoon of dish detergent into a quart of hot tap water. Dip a microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wipe with the grain over the surface of your appliances. It’s OK to gently rub stuck-on grime, if needed (microfiber will not scratch). Work in small sections. Rinse the towel in clean, hot water and wipe the surface again. Use a dry microfiber towel to dry the surface.

3. To help prevent dirt and grime sticking on the surface of your stainless steel appliances and make them look shiny and new, apply a light coating of mineral oil to the surface. Buff it well with a flour sack cotton cloth to avoid any tacky buildup. Do not use food-based oil, including vegetable and olive oil, because they can turn rancid.

Thirteen Chefs Food Grade Mineral Oil, $9.65 from Amazon

Also good for wood surfaces.

More Stainless Steel Cleaning Tips

Now that you removed the dirt and grime, what about all those unsightly streaks? The key to preventing streaks is to wipe with the grain. Wiping with the grain of the stainless steel enables you to clean the microscopic grooves where dirt gets trapped and keep streaks at bay. Streaks occur due to wiping against the grain or in a circular motion.

Another thing to consider is the hardness of your water. Hard water will leave deposits on stainless surfaces. So, if your water is hard, consider using filtered water when making your cleaners and wipe up any water splashes on the surfaces before they dry.

Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, $4.12 from Walmart

If you’d rather not DIY, get a cleaner formulated for stainless steel.

Also, remember that each stainless steel appliance is different, so cleaning may vary with each surface. Always review the manufacturer’s guide that came with your appliances for specific cleaning directions.

Chowhound’s sister site CNET has more stainless steel cleaning advice, including an interesting way to use your leftover orange peels.

This Post may contain Affiliate Links. Please read our Disclosure for legal jargon.

Picture this: a sparkling new stainless steel sink. Now picture this: what if you knew how to restore that sheen to your water-spotted, dulled sink?

Stainless steel is a wonderful invention. It does not get corroded, no rust, and guess what, it cannot be worn out by too much cleaning! No wonder it is the backbone of every kitchen.

Keeping a stainless steel sink spotless and clean is important so as to prevent corrosion. Luckily for us, it is really simple to keep them shining like brand new.

Cleaning A Stainless Steel Sink

Method 1:

Most of the daily-use utensils in our kitchens are made of stainless steel, which means that the detergents you use to clean the utensils can be used for the sink as well. Use sponges soaked in warm water with detergents for a quick clean.

Method 2:

Another quick and easy way to bring back the lustre in one of these sinks is by using a paste of baking soda and water. Simply rub the paste on the basin, and then rinse with white vinegar. The vinegar will bubble and fizz. Rinse with water to leave the sink completely stain-free. I normally take around 5 minutes for this whole procedure.

For Cleaning Difficult to Reach Surfaces:

To clean surfaces that are difficult to reach, dip an old toothbrush in some baking soda, wet it a little and rub the surfaces.

Add on Cleaning Method:

If the stains are unwilling to leave your sink, try mixing 3 parts cream of tartar with 1 part hydrogen peroxide and let the mixture sit and dry on the surface of the sink. Afterwards, wipe it with a wet sponge.

All-purpose flour is an excellent extra step. Make sure your sink is dry and then, just buff the flour over the surface of the sink, using a dry cloth. Move-in circular motions, applying very little pressure. Then wipe it out. How do you like this new sheen?

Lemon and orange peels can be put to good use by rubbing them against the sinks in small, circular strides. This will rid the sinks of any odour and also keep them shining like new.

For Polishing and Keeping Your Stainless Steel Sink Shining:

Club soda can also be used to polish the inner surface. Use a cloth dipped in club soda and move along the polish lines of the sink. This can be done every once in two-three months to refresh the polish of the sink.

After cleaning your sink, buff it with a few drops of olive oil with a paper towel. This will make sure your sink is shimmery and clean for several weeks to come.

Daily Maintenance Of Stainless Steel Sink

Abrasive cleaners can be used daily. Use warm water and sponges to clean your sink with them.

Since the soaps and detergents we use to clean utensils have high chloride content, it is advisable to not let any lather sit in the sink. It might lead to corrosion. Instead, rinse out the sink with running water after every use.

After every use, wipe the interior of the sink with a dry cloth. Letting water droplets dry on the surface leads to some ugly water spots. However, water spots can be cleaned by rubbing the surface with white vinegar.

General Tips

1. Some of these cleaning agents can damage your hands, so I would advise you to wear gloves at all times.

2. Finishing your cleaning drive with a few drops of baby oil or olive oil keeps it clean for a long time.

3. Always remember to work your way along the polish lines.

4. Steel wool should be avoided as much as possible. Use cloth scrubbers like “Scotch Brite” instead.

So, really, you don’t have to hop in your car and go buy stuff to clean your sink – most of these are household items. Daily maintenance of your sink is as important as thoroughly cleaning it, which should be done once every few weeks. Keeping the lustre of the sink intact is no rocket science, either. I think there’s another reason why stainless steel haunts our kitchens.

Stainless steel cookware is the most durable and versatile cookware you can find. However, if you want your pots and pans to last many years, you need to adopt a good cleaning routine. This article covers everything you need to know about cleaning stainless steel cookware.

See also our review of the top stainless steel cookware sets.

Table of Contents

Everyday Maintenance

Just like any other cookware, stainless steel cookware needs to be cleaned after each use. Not everyone feels like washing dishes immediately after cooking, but the sooner you do it the easier it will be since food stains are easier to remove when they are fresh than when they have dried out. For regular everyday cleaning of stainless steel, all you need is some dish soap, warm water, and a sponge.

Stainless steel is quite durable and resistant to scratches, so you can really get in there and scrub without worries. If you really want to keep the shiny finish on your pot or pan, just use a sponge without a rough surface.

If you are persistent, this should be enough in most cases. For tougher stains and burnt food, you might want to try soaking your cookware for a couple of hours before scrubbing. Some stainless steel cookware is also dishwasher safe, but this is generally not recommended.

If these methods fail to provide satisfactory results – don’t worry! We still have a couple of stainless steel cleaning tricks to share with you. These will help especially with burnt pans and extremely tough stains.

How to Clean Burnt and Scorched Stainless Steel Cookware

So, you’ve forgotten the pot boiling on the stove and by the time you noticed it became a horrendous, burnt mess? It’s alright, it happens to everyone. The good news is, if it’s stainless steel, your pot is most likely not ruined!

The first thing you can try is to fill the pot with water with some dish soap added and let it soak for an hour or two. Then, turn on the stove again and let the water boil for fifteen to twenty minutes. The residue should come off easily after this.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

For really stubborn stains there is another trick you can try. It’s simple and easy to do and it will save you a lot of scrubbing! To do this, you will need a cup of white vinegar, some baking soda, and some water.

To begin cleaning using this method, you will need to fill the pot or pan with a mixture of water and white vinegar. Put the pan or pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. Even with the vinegar alone, the pan should be looking a bit cleaner. The next step is to add the baking soda to the mixture. To do this, remove the pat or pon from the stove first. Adding the baking soda will cause a fizzy reaction that will help resolve any residue on the cooking surface of the pot or pan. To avoid creating too much foam, you can pour the vinegar-water mixture out of the dish, until just the bottom is covered. Once you add the baking soda, wait until the “fizzy” reaction stops, and then pour everything out. You will most likely need to do a bit of scrubbing after all to remove all the residue, but it should be much easier now!

How to Remove Water Spots From Stainless Steel Cookware

If you live in an area with very hard tap water (tap water means the water has a high calcium content), you have probably noticed white residue forming on your cookware. To prevent these marks from forming, you should wipe your dishes with a soft cloth immediately after washing them. However, sometimes this is not enough and the white, chalky residue still remains on your cookware. You can fight these with white vinegar. Just apply a bit of vinegar to a cloth and rub until the stain is gone.

Alternatively, for really tough stains on the inside of your cookware, you can fill the pot or pan with a mixture of vinegar and voter and bring it to a boil. The ratio should be about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Let it boil for about fifteen minutes and throw the mixture away. The stains should be gone. Always dry the pot or pan thoroughly when you are finished to prevent hard water stains from forming.

TOP 5 Stainless Steel Cookware Sets Reviewed

Read our review on the Top 5 best stainless steel cookware sets.

How to Season a Stainless Steel Pan

Although it’s certainly not necessary, you can season a stainless steel pan just like you would a cast iron one. This will make the pan less sticky, so you can even cook eggs on it (which tend to stick to stainless steel). To season a stainless steel pan, start by washing it thoroughly.

Once the pan is dry, coat the inside with a layer of oil. Oils with a high smoke point, like peanut oil, work best. Put the pan on the stove on medium heat and wait until the oil starts to smoke and turn off the heat. That’s it, you now have a seasoned stainless steel pan.

Stainless Steel Cookware Cleaning and Maintenance: Useful Tips

Once you find a high-quality piece of stainless steel cookware, you’ll want to take care of it in the best possible way. These are some tips and tricks that will help you keep your stainless steel cookware in a perfect state for years to come!

A new stainless steel sink sparkles, but as it gets used that bright shiny finish becomes dull and stained. Well, the good news is that you can restore that clean, shiny finish with a few easy steps. Some of you are probably still using the commercial stainless steel cleaner that the manufacturer recommended, and that works, but who knows what is in that stuff?

If your sink, fridge, oven or other stainless steel appliances are dull and stained, start with a full restoration, then use my regular cleaning method on a daily basis. If your sink is new, you can probably just begin with the regular cleaning to keep it looking new. Try to tackle stains quickly to make the job easier.

I keep a small plastic container in the sink for dirty silverware, knives, cloths, and sponges. I add a little hot soapy water to the bowl as I begin to cook, and I empty the bowl into the dishwasher after each meal. This prevents scratches in the sink and soaks off any stuck on food.

Regular Cleaning Stainless Steel Sink
Stain Removal on Stainless Steel Surfaces
Sanitizing Your Stainless Steel Sink
A Full Restoration

Regular Cleaning Stainless Steel Sink

Every night, when the dishes are done, I clean my sink thoroughly and buff it dry. This only takes a few minutes, but it does a great job of keeping my sink in good shape. First, I rinse the sink to remove all food particles and debris; then wash the sink out with soapy water.

I choose a mildly abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth, sponge, or cleaning pad to apply the cleanser. You have many good natural abrasive cleansers to choose from without resorting to chemical cleaners. Choose one from my list or use your favorite.

Scrub the stainless steel with the grain lines. Scrubbing against the grain can leave tiny scratches that dull the finish. Don’t forget the faucet and all the tiny crevices around the faucet. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to get into all the little crevices.

Rinse the sink and faucet, then dry it with a clean cloth or paper towels. If you skip the drying step, you are likely to have water spots ruining that shiny surface. Using this method, your sink will stay clean and naturally shiny for a longtime.

Mildly Abrasive Homemade Steel Cleaner Choices

Baking soda and water OR
Flour and water paste OR
3 tsp cream of tartar and 1 tsp hydrogen peroxide

On a side note, if you have stainless steel jewelry, you know that it can get dull after wearing for a while. You can clean it with one of these recipes, as well. Use a soft cloth to rub in the paste of your choice, rinse clean, and dry thoroughly.

Your stainless steel jewelry will sparkle again! These cleaners are easily accessible and are the best way to clean stainless steel without damaging the surface.

Get rid of all kinds of grime and stains from your sink with a few swipes of a dishcloth. Baking soda, along with vinegar or boiling water, is also ideal for how to unclog a stainless sink drain if the drain has started to smell or if you have a blockage.

Stain Removal on Stainless Steel Surfaces

Most stubborn stains are caused by leaving a stainless steel or cast iron utensil in the sink for a long time. These can cause rust stains to form where the metals contact. Prevent stains by keeping the sink empty and clean.

When stubborn stains do occur, you have a few choices. My preference is to use my Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Sink Cleaner and apply a little elbow grease. This cleaner often used to clean grease off a stainless steel stove, is a safe and effective abrasive that also disinfects the sink.

Stir the ingredients together to make a bubbly paste, then apply it with a cloth, sponge, or a soft brush. Rub the stain with the grain or in small circles until the stain is gone and the surface is clean.

Rub down the remainder of the sink and let the homemade steel sink cleaner recipe remain on the sink surface for a few minutes to have time to disinfect the sink. Rinse the sink and buff it dry.

Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Sink Cleaner Recipe

1 tbsp coarse salt
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 to 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide

Mix the salt and baking soda with enough of the peroxide to form a paste. Rub it on the stain and rinse clean. While this recipe is ideal for cleaning stainless steel and can remove rust stains from a kitchen sink quite well, you can also use salt to clean your cast iron skillet, too.

For stubborn stains, scrub in a little salt into it and rinse it away without removing the seasoning on the cast iron.

Sanitizing Your Stainless Steel Sink

We don’t like to use bleach on stainless steel because it can damage the sink and cause more stains. My favorite sanitizing method is to spray the sink with vinegar, then with hydrogen peroxide.

Either of these alone does a good job of killing germs, but together they form an even more effective sanitizer. I usually sanitize my sink before I buff it dry, but allow the vinegar and peroxide to sit on the sink surface for a few minutes for the full effect.

You can also use this simple solution as a stainless steel coffee pot cleaner. Get rid of stains and debris on the inside and outside of your coffee pot and get ready for that next great cup of coffee.

Pour a mixture of vinegar and peroxide into the sink for how to clean a sink drain, too. Sometimes odors linger deep in the pipes where it is hard to get at them. This is an effective solution.

A Full Restoration

If your sink is dull, stained, and badly scratched, it may be time for a full restoration. Start by following the instructions for everyday cleaning and the instructions for removing stains.

Once your sink is clean and stain free, examine it closely for scratches and marks that are dulling the finish and notice the direction of the grain. Vinegar will remove water stains, but usually, the problem is due to scratches that mar the finish.

For the best finish, you need to remove these scratches by buffing the surface and adding new tiny scratches that go with the flow of the grain. Use an abrasive cleanser or, if the surface is badly damaged, 240 grit sandpaper and lightly scrub in the direction of the grain.

Use a light touch and be careful to create only tiny scratches that flow with the natural surface. Rinse the surface and repeat the process as needed, finishing with an abrasive cleanser.

Dry and buff the sink surface with a microfiber cloth. Then shine it up with a little dab of baby oil, mineral oil, or cooking oil. Use just enough to give shine without leaving a greasy film.

I hope that these tips help you restore your sink to its natural shine and keep it clean. If you have pinholes in your sink, or if the rust is deep or the sink is pitted, you need to contact a professional. A stainless steel sink can give you many years of use if you treat it properly and keep it clean.

Unfortunately, sometimes you move into a situation that is less than ideal, so give these tips a try and let me know how they work for you. If you use another method that works well, please let us all know by leaving a comment.

If this article helped you, consider sharing it on social media so that others may benefit. Let’s work together to make housework easier and create more time for the activities that give joy to life.

Restore your stainless steel appliances to their former glory.

Both durable and shiny, stainless steel is the ideal material for kitchens and bathroom. But as anyone who’s owned stainless steel kitchen appliances knows, the name is somewhat of a misnomer. The material is prone to fingerprints, streaks, and water stains. The name “stainless” was originally used to describe the metal’s ability to withstand heat and humidity without corroding. Although this material is tough, harsh abrasives can scratch it or make it rust, so it’s important to learn how to clean stainless steel the right way. Follow the steps below to get your stainless steel shiny and have it live up to its name.

What You’ll Need:

Soft cloth
Mild dish soap
White vinegar
Baking soda

Follow These Steps:

1. Check the manual: Before you clean a stainless steel appliance, it’s a smart idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Lost the manual? Don’t worry, you may be able to find it online. It’s important to check the directions for your specific appliance, because there are numerous grades of stainless steel that may be more or less durable, and some appliances are treated with a clear-coat finish, which can be stripped by certain cleaning products.

2. Go with the grain: Just like wood, stainless steel has a grain. Check out the striations on the surface of your appliance, and wipe in that direction, beginning at the top and working your way down.

3. The quick clean: In most cases, wiping down the stainless steel appliance with a clean cloth dipped in hot water should do the trick. But for more stubborn stains, add a drop of dish soap to the water and use the sudsy solution to wipe the surface. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.

4. The steam clean: To sterilize stainless steel, you can also use a steam cleaner with a nozzle attachment. The steam will disinfect the surface, which can then be wiped dry with a soft cloth. Because stainless steel can scratch easily, avoid using a brush attachment or any stiff cleaning tools.

5. Try vinegar: For stubborn grease spots or water scaling, wet a soft cloth with a diluted solution of 2 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Wipe the entire surface from top to bottom, but never let vinegar sit on the surface. Follow with a complete rinse and dry.

6. Baking soda scrub: Burned or caked-on messes on stainless steel pots and pans or countertops typically need a bit more attention. Make a soft paste out of baking soda and water and apply to the stain, allowing it to sit for about 20 minutes. Then, scrub the area with a cloth dampened in a solution of water and dish soap. It’s important to use a soft cloth and work parallel with the grain to avoid scratches. Be sure to fully rinse and dry.

Here’s the right way to do it, plus an incredibly easy way to stop streaks.

Need to know how to clean stainless steel appliances? We’ve got you covered, plus tips on what not to do, and how to avoid those unsightly streaks.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

Before you begin, it’s important to understand the “don’ts” of cleaning stainless steel. Common mistakes when it comes to cleaning stainless steel include:

Using abrasive cleaners. Although it’s a durable surface, stainless steel does scratch easily. Abrasive cleaners, even natural ones like baking soda, are designed to scour a surface in order to remove dirt and are more likely to damage your stainless steel.

Using steel wool or abrasive cleaning pads. Like abrasive cleaners, abrasive cleaning pads and steel wool will scratch the grain of the steel and make your appliances appear dull. Even a paper towel can be too rough, so go with a gentle microfiber cloth instead.

All-Purpose Microfiber Cloths, 3 for $9.95 from Grove Collaborative

A soft cloth that’s still effective.

Using bleach. Bleach is great for whitening and disinfecting surfaces. It is not made for use on stainless steel surfaces. Although it may not be noticeable at first, bleach will remove the finish of stainless steel over time.

Letting dirt and grime sit. Allowing dirt and grime to sit on the surface of stainless steel will make it harder to remove later. Dried messes require more scrubbing, which may lead to scratches on the surface. Wiping up messes as soon as they occur will save you cleaning time and minimizes the chance of accidentally scratching the stainless steel.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Thirteen Chefs Food Grade Mineral Oil, $9.65 from Amazon

Also good for wood surfaces.

More Stainless Steel Cleaning Tips

Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, $4.12 from Walmart

If you’d rather not DIY, get a cleaner formulated for stainless steel.

Chowhound’s sister site CNET has more stainless steel cleaning advice, including an interesting way to use your leftover orange peels.

Say goodbye to streaks and smudges.

Related To:

Confession: As a new homeowner who has never had any stainless-steel appliances, I wasn’t properly prepared for the challenge of keeping these babies clean. My journey to a smudge-free refrigerator began by simply purchasing a variety of cleaning products labeled “stainless-steel cleaner.” However, I quickly learned that most of them don’t work. They create streaks, don’t clean anything and often left my refrigerator looking like a crime scene.

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The woman cleaning surface of inox refrigerator with pink rag and spray.

Photo by: ©

I don’t want you to suffer like I did, so here’s everything you need to know about keeping your stainless-steel appliances sparkling and streak-free.

THE BASICS

There are also some major “don’ts” when it comes to cleaning stainless steel:

Avoid using steel wool or any other abrasive sponges or scrubber pads.

Don’t use any chlorine-based cleaner or anything with chloride in it.

Don’t use an oven cleaner.

If your tap water is harsh, it it might leave spots or stains.

AT-HOME SOLUTIONS

Vinegar + Olive Oil

Many people swear by the simple combination of vinegar and olive oil for keeping their stainless-steel appliances clean.

1: Add white vinegar to a clean spray bottle.

2: Spray down your stainless-steel appliance.

3: Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

4: Once clean, dip your cloth into a small amount of olive oil.

5: Move the cloth in the direction of the grain. This will add some deep shine to your appliance and remove any remaining streaks or marks.

Dish Soap + Baby Oil

Simple dish soap can also work to clean your stainless-steel appliances.

1: Clean the appliance with dish soap.

2: Put a small amount of baby oil on a microfiber cloth.

3: Move the cloth in the direction of the grain to polish and shine your appliance.

Club Soda

TBH, I’ve never tried this one, but I have friends who swear by this simple cleaning technique.

1: Add club soda to a clean spray bottle.

2: Spray down your stainless-steel appliance.

3: Rub the cloth in the direction of the grain to polish and shine your appliance.

How to Clean Major Appliances

Go deep with these cleaning tips for your dishwasher, fridge and more.

2 people found this helpful

Stainless steel can be our pride and joy – but only when it’s sparkling. Crusty pans, smudgy sinks and sticky appliances aren’t quite so appealing – but the good news is that cleaning them safely (without scratches and smudges) is easy with our fail-safe method.

Whether you’re wondering how to clean a stainless-steel sink or how to clean stainless-steel pans, there’s one key to quick success: the more elbow grease the better. Get your partner or a friend on board (they can scrub while you rinse) and the job will be done in half the time.

Get to know the grain

Wood isn’t the only material that has a grain; stainless steel has one too, and it’s important when it comes to the cleaning of stainless steel.

The first thing you need to do when figuring out how to clean stainless steel is to determine the direction of the grain. Look closely at the surface of your appliance, sink or pans to work out whether the faint lines are running up-and-down or side-to-side.
Although the direction will be the same in one sheet of steel, bear in mind that the grain on other pieces that have been attached, like knobs, taps and handles, might have a different direction.
When washing stainless steel, you’ll get a better result if you wipe in the direction of the grain. This helps avoid any grime or product residue sinking deeper below the surface during the cleaning of stainless steel.

Choose your cleaning supplies

There are various options for supplies when it comes to the cleaning of stainless steel, whether you’re cleaning a stainless-steel sink or cleaning stainless-steel pans.

Speciality cleaner. One of the best options is to go with a product formulated specially for stainless steel cleaning. Just remember to test a small patch first, and follow the instructions on the label.
Dish detergent/washing-up liquid. Alternatively, you can mix one teaspoon of dish soap with one quart of hot water from the tap. Be sure to rinse off with clean hot water and dry straight away.
Vinegar and oil. Another option is to use vinegar in a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe away with a paper towel. Then you can buff with a small amount of oil.
Mineral oil. You can use mineral oil to remove fingerprints after cleaning by buffing a light coating of it. Avoid food-based oils, like vegetable or olive oil.
Strong paper towels. These are non-abrasive and will absorb excess oil. Pick paper towels that are strong when wet, like Plenty kitchen paper, so you don’t leave any bits behind.

Whether you’re soaking up excess grease from stainless steel or administering the final polish, extra-absorbent Plenty is ideal for the job. It’s strong, even when wet, so it’s great for scrubbing and polishing.

How to clean stainless steel: the process

Follow these simple steps when washing stainless steel.

Start off by placing a small amount of your cleaning fluid on your cloth. Wipe this along your stainless steel, in the direction of the grain. For stubborn stains, rub carefully, one small section at a time.
If using a speciality cleaner or vinegar, wipe it away with another clean, damp paper towel.
Rinse by washing the stainless steel with clean hot water.
Use a cloth to dry the area immediately.
Finish by polishing with a strong paper towel. Wipe in the direction of the grain, backwards and forwards (whether that’s vertically or horizontally). You can either use the paper towel dry, or add a drop of mineral oil.

When cleaning a stainless-steel sink or cleaning stainless-steel pans you can remove grease, fingerprints and watermarks by carefully following these steps. Then sit back and admire your sparkling work!

How difficult is this project?

This project is: DIY-friendly

Content Overview

In this article we will answer the following questions:

How should I clean my cable railing?
How can I protect and maintain cable railing over time?
How often should I treat cable railing?
How do I maintain cable tension over time?

Type 316 marine-grade stainless steel has a great reputation and solid track record for holding up well, even under harsh conditions. However, nothing lasts forever, and even the most corrosion-resistant materials will rust if not properly treated and maintained. To keep your stainless cable railing looking (and working) great for years to come, follow the steps outlined below.

Materials List:

Here’s what you’ll need to complete this project:

Nylon brush
Warm water and mild dish soap
Blow dryer (optional)
Boeshield Rust Free (for treating existing corrosion)
Boeshield T9 Stainless Steel Protectant
Shop rags

Step 1: Clean Your Railing

First, use a soft nylon brush to remove dirt. Next, wash your railing with warm water and mild dish soap. Then, dry all exposed parts of the cable railing with a soft cloth or blow dryer.

What if my existing railing or hardware is showing signs of rust?

If your stainless steel hardware is showing signs of rust, corrosion, or patina, we recommend using Boeshield Rust Free as a first step. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying and using Rust Free safely. It is essential to clean away all surface-level rust before treating your hardware.

Warning: Avoid using all-purpose cleaners, chlorine bleach, and abrasive cleaners which can cause damage.

Step 2: Protect Your Aluminum or Stainless Steel Components

Apply Boeshield T-9 Rust & Corrosion Protection Waterproof Lubricant or your choice of stainless steel cleaner to all components of your cable railing in order to prevent rust and corrosion. Treat the tensioner set screw channel to prevent it from gumming up, and to ensure smooth tensioning over time.

How should I treat stainless steel hardware in metal posts?

The T-9 aerosol spray is ideal for direct application on a metal railing. For a light protective coat, wipe off excess. If your metal railing has wood components, spray lubricant onto a soft cloth or sponge before applying to avoid contact with the wood.

How should I treat stainless steel hardware in wood posts?

The T-9 squeeze bottle is ideal for the wood post railing because it allows for more precise application. Squeeze lubricant onto a soft cloth or sponge and apply to all exposed stainless steel components.

Warning: Avoid exposing any wood to the lubricant, as it may cause discoloration.

Step 3: Repeat the Process as Often as Necessary

To maintain your cable railing, we recommend treating all components at least once a year, or as often as is necessary for your environment. How frequently you clean and protect your stainless will depend a great deal on how exposed your hardware is.

Inland vs. Coastal Environments

If you live within one mile of environments that expose your cable railing to acid rain or salt air and spray, treat your railing at least every 3-6 months, or as needed. Failing to adequately clean and protect your stainless can result in corrosion, and may compromise the integrity of your railing, which can present a safety concern.

Indoor, inland, or railing that’s shielded from the elements may not need to be treated as frequently. Check your railing at the end of every season to avoid any surprises.

Maintaining Cable Tension Over Time

Will I need to re-tension my cables after I’ve installed them?

Yes, you will likely need to re-tension your cables after the initial installation. Don’t worry, this is normal! If you have installed cable railing on a new structure you may need to re-tension your lines after the structure or posts begins to settle and shift. Metal expansion and contraction, and stress on the cables can also result in lines needing to be re-tensioned.

Check for the following 1 month after installation and no less than once yearly thereafter:

Check your cable tension and tighten any cable lines that have begun to sag. Use a 3/32” Allen wrench to advance the set screw on either end.
Check each set screw channel to make sure it is clean. If you notice buildup or have difficulties advancing the set screw, clean and lubricate.
Check your posts for signs of decay, especially in harsh environments where wood rot and rust are a concern.

Here is a quick and easy guide on How to Clean your Stainless Steel Handles.

It is recommended to use filtered clean water in a bucket with a small dose of liquid detergent and a cleaning sponge.
Mix the detergent through the water and dampen the cleaning sponge.
Squeeze any excess water, wipe over and clean your handles with the damp, soapy sponge.
Once they are clean simply wipe over with a dry soft cloth and dry thoroughly.
If tea staining has already occurred, scrub your handles using a mild abrasive cleaner or our specialist metal cleaner (Nver-Dull) which can be purchased from Handle House. This will help to loosen grime and remove the tea staining.
DO NOT use steel wool as this will leave a steel residue which will prone to rusting.
DO NOT go against the grain! Always rub stainless in the same direction as the grain. Rubbing against the grain can spoil the finish and cause the stainless to lose its shine, (especially on Polished Stainless Steel). This also can create surface crevices that can lead to corrosion spots.
Once you have used a cleaner, clean and then polish with a soft microfibre cloth to buff and polish your handles. Maintaining the care of your handles will give you a longer lasting use.
If you are unsure of the material of your chosen products, please do not hesitate to contact Handle House team to discuss the best way to care for and maintain the quality finish of your product.

The term Stainless Steel means exactly that, “stain less”, rather than, “no stain steel”.

As stainless steel does not have an outer coating it is necessary to provide regular cleaning to ensure your product remains at its highest original quality.

Naturally all stainless steel handles can overtime occur a brown discolouration, this is also known as tea staining. This is a phenomenon that happens where water with significant of chloride content that is in regular contact with the metal surface. This is common especially along the coastlines of Australia, however with regular maintenance this event can be controlled for any handles exposed to these kinds of conditions.

Handle House’s stainless steel products are of highest Australian quality material and are very resistant to corrosion. Factors however still exists that can cause any stainless steel to stain and discolour. This is a natural process and does not indicate a fault or defect in the manufacturing process of our products.

Does anyone know how to clean and what to use to clean a fake stainless steel refrigerator? Can’t use abrasive material, it scratches.refrigerator that is fake stainless steel.

That does not work either,because the refrigerator is not real stainless steel.Chemicals ingredients make it worse.It’s terrible .Refrigerator is made by Whirlpool.I’m waiting for an answer from them as well.Thank You.

A gentle mix of rubbing alcohol, Dawn, water can work

Vinegar won’t be good for this type of surface, but alcohol woll

I’m Linda and I have the same type of stainless steel on my refrigerator. Whirlpool recommends water and a mild detergent soap. Here’s a link to their stainless steel cleaning instruction that includes the finger-proof resistant, which is probably the type that you have. Wishing you the best.

If you have invested your time and money into a beautiful space at home, you probably treasure your home appliances. Making sure they last a long time not only involves keeping them functional, but also keeping them clean.

The kitchen is one of the rooms in your house that is most prone to dirt and debris, so keeping a clean kitchen is important. And for those kitchen appliances, especially stainless steel, it can be hard to keep everything spick and span.

Your stainless steel refrigerator or oven door can end up being covered in streaks, grease spots, or smudged fingerprints. Suddenly, that appliance that was once shining and clean is covered in stains and no longer glistens.

However, with the right upkeep, it is possible to clean stainless steel appliances. In this article, we will cover how to clean stainless steel appliances in your kitchen and throughout your home. There is often more to it than just using the right cleaning product. A stainless steel surface needs the right method applied to make sure that you are left with a streak-free shine.

When cleaning a stainless steel appliance, the surface needs to be treated with something smooth that matches the surface. This is why you should avoid using harsh abrasives like steel wool, bleach, or scouring sponges and powders. These materials can damage the surface and leave scratches and marks.

Even if the stainless steel surface has tough spots on it that are difficult to scrub off, it is better to leave your cleaner to soak on the surface than try to scrub it off with something like steel wool. Using an abrasive cleaner will just damage the finish and leave marks and scratches on the stainless steel grain.

If you are unsure of how to clean stainless steel, it is best to check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what the best course of action is. The manufacturer’s manual may be available online as well, so check online resources if there were no instructions in your appliance manual.

Often times, they will recommend against using certain cleaners that can wear away at the appliance surface. For example, it is usually recommended not to use glass cleaner on stainless steel as it can damage the surface.

Baking soda is an easy-to-use cleaner that will get rid of hard water stains. Mix baking soda with water until it forms a paste-like consistency. Then, using a cloth or soft side of a sponge, rub the paste onto the stainless steel in a circular motion. Gently work in the paste on any stains and wipe away with a wet cloth and dry.

This is an easy cleaning solution that does not take too long to and will still effectively clean your stainless steel kitchen appliances. In a bowl, mix warm water with a mild dish soap. Dip a microfiber cloth, or any soft cloth, in the mixture and wipe down the surface.

Wipe down the surface a few times until the surface is completely coated, and then wet your cloth again and rinse off the surface. Dry with a paper towel or other dry cloth to prevent any streaks or water spots.

You may have heard of this unconventional cleaner before, but olive oil will do wonders as a polish on a stainless steel surface. Oil on stainless steel surfaces may not necessarily get rid of stains, but it is a great finish when you are done cleaning. Often, after rubbing away a stubborn stain, the surface can look and feel quite dull. This is where oil comes in, leaving the surface smooth and glossy like it is brand new.

To use oil as a finish, use olive oil (or lemon oil for a fresh citrus scent) when you are done cleaning. A little can go a long way, so dab it onto a cloth and rub it in small circular motions over the surface for a beautiful stainless steel polish.

It may not often be the most environmentally-friendly option, but consider purchasing a stainless steel cleaner to clean your appliance. There are plenty of stainless steel cleaning creams that will work wonders on stubborn stains.

If using homemade cleaners just is not working on any stains or spots, sometimes it is best to use cleaning products made specifically for stainless steel.

If you want to avoid using harsh chemicals, here are some of our recommendations for a steel cleaner.

This polish by Better Life is one of the best-selling stainless steel polishes on Amazon. It leaves a fresh lavender and chamomile scent. It is a great eco-friendly option that is plant-derived and will still effectively clean steel without damaging it.

Method is well known for its environmentally friendly, plant-based cleaning products, and this is a great all-in-one cleaner for stainless steel. Their cleaner and polish will get rid of any stubborn stains that are hard to work off while also polishing the surface. It also has a refreshing apple scent.

This stainless steel cleaner and polish by Hey Mom is also a best-seller on Amazon that is made from natural ingredients. With a vanilla lavender scent, it removed smudges, grime build-up, and fingerprints, leaving a streak-free shine.

Before you start cleaning, remember that it is best to double-check and see if your appliance comes with a manual listing any maintenance tips. To take care of the appliances in your kitchen, perform routine maintenance and cleaning when you can, either weekly or monthly.

Often, using a homemade cleaner can be the best route, but for tough stains, use products that are recommended for the surface you are working with. Happy cleaning!

Regular cleaning and maintenance promotes the beauty and
longevity of your outdoor kitchen cabinets and ensures a lifetime of use.

Cleaning and Care Instructions

We recommend regular care and cleaning of your stainless steel products to promote the products life.

The 304 stainless steel material used in the construction of 4 Life Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets is highly rust resistant, however, stainless steel is only rust-resistant not rust-proof. The powder-coated doors do not require as much cleaning but the stainless countertops and frames can be affected by chlorine in the air from swimming pools or the salt from sea air may cause surface rust to appear.

What maintenance is required?

If you live in a coastal area or will have the cabinet next to a chlorine pool, we suggest cleaning all stainless steel surfaces at least every two weeks to keep your cabinets in prime condition. Outside of coastal areas, cleaning the cabinets every three months will suffice.

The chemical reaction from salt or stuck on food is easy to prevent however it is more difficult when left on the surface. Always remember that stainless steel equipment is not stain-proof, it is stain-less.

Routine cleaning can be accomplished by rinsing away dirt and debris. Do this by gently wiping with a damp, non-abrasive cloth or sponge using warm water. Always clean in the direction of the stainless grain lines by locating the lines or grain and scrub in a motion parallel to them. The cabinets can air dry but a quick follow up using a soft towel will prevent water spotting.

The following are some important tips on cleaning your stainless steel:
• There are a number of reliable stainless steel cleaners on the market but do not apply the stainless cleaner to the powder coated doors.
• Use only alkaline, alkaline-chlorinated or non-chloride cleaners
• Avoid hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) on your stainless steel
• Always use a non-abrasive cleaning tool such as a soft cloth or plastic scouring pad
• Avoid steel pads, wire brushes, abrasive foam and scrapers on the stainless and powder coated areas
• If you do end up using a chlorinated cleaner, be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry it, immediately

Important notes to remember:

Light or superficial scratches to stainless steel are likely to occur during normal use and do not affect the integrity of the product.

Caution – The use of Solvents, Abrasives, or Dish Washer Detergent will damage the product’s finish. The best is using a mild soap and water. Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area before applying to the entire product.

Discoloration due to the high heat, for example beside a grill, is a trait of stainless steel and is not covered by any manufacturer. Surface rust resulting from acid rain or environmental chemicals are also not covered by all stainless cabinet company’s warranties.

Do not store objects on the surface for any extended periods of time as these can trap moisture and debris.

Do not place hot items directly on the stainless surface. Damage created by hot items can be minimized by cleaning and buffing, but will typically never be eliminated. This type of damage will not be covered under warranty.

CAUTION- Ceramic materials, and other abrasive textures, can cause damage to painted surfaces.

CAUTION – Take care to not let hot ash come in contact with the painted surface of the product. In addition, wet ash can become corrosive over time, so keep all surfaces free of ash debris.

Minimize the natural aging of your product by storing your cabinet in a dry, shaded area. Both Vinyl and Aqualon (marine-grade) covers are available for outdoor kitchens on Amazon or your favorate retailer.

If you have any questions regarding the care or install of your cabinets, just give us a call! We are happy to help.

This is a great DIY method for how to clean stainless steel appliances like the refrigerator, stove, microwave, or dishwasher. Uses simple cleaners to knock out smudges and prevent fingerprints!

Let’s go on and put it out there: while beautiful, stainless steel is kind of a pain in the rear to keep clean.

If you have any kind of stainless steel appliance in your home, you understand. As soon as you touch it, there will be smudges and handprints. While I secretly kind of love those little handprints, they just have to go sometimes.

Luckily, there’s a really easy way to not only clean stainless steel but to keep it smudge-free!

(Affiliate links used in this post. Read more about my link usage here.)

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

There are two incredibly simple supplies I use for streak-free stainless steel appliances…

My trusty microfiber cleaning cloths and glass cleaner (i.e. Windex). That’s it!

Simply spray your appliance down with the glass cleaner and buff in a circular motion. It might take a couple of times to really get the streaks and smudges out of your stainless steel appliance – repeat as needed until clean.

I do this once a week (on Journey to Clean fridge/pantry day, which just happens to be today!). It takes a grand total of 2 minutes and makes your fridge look so sparkly and shiny.

How to Keep a Stainless Steel Appliance Streak-Free

There’s also a fun little trick I like to do once a month (during Journey to Clean kitchen week, on the refrigerator deep clean day) that keeps your fridge smudge-resistant and conditioned.

For this, you need olive oil (yes, olive oil that you cook with!) and a microfiber cloth.

It’s kind of hard to see in the picture above, but your stainless steel appliance has a “grain” to it. Look closely at your appliance – you can see that it either runs vertically or horizontally. Looking at my fridge, you can sort of see that horizontal graining above.

Put a small amount of olive oil (maybe a teaspoon) on a microfiber cloth. Following the grain of your stainless steel, gently rub the olive oil onto your appliance.

After you do this one time, it might look a little cloudy and streaky – that means you’ll need to gently buff off excess oil. Use the clean side of your cloth to apply really light pressure to the stainless steel in a circular motion until you can’t see the streaks in the stainless steel.

This method conditions your stainless steel and helps ward off those extra smudges from little fingers.

See? So pretty and shiny! With those two simple tasks, your fridge can look like new. Integrate this cleaning into your weekly routine for super easy fridge maintenance.

Catch up on the rest of the Cleaning 101 series with the links below!

Stainless steel kitchenware and home appliances such as knives, pans, and refrigerators give your home a very good look. However, the term “stainless steel” isn’t exactly the most succinct of descriptions for these appliances.

Stainless steel is predominantly steel, and steel does rust if not properly taken care of in the long run. Have you ever wondered how to get rust off stainless steel? Read on for practical tips as well as how to keep rust from coming back to your beloved appliances.

Why Does Rust Occur?

The simple explanation is that when the chromium in stainless steel is exposed to oxygen found in the atmosphere, it forms a very thin layer of chromium oxide. It is this invisible layer, which covers the entire surface of the stainless steel appliance, which gives it its ability to resist rust and stains.

However, should this layer get damaged, as it so often does due to poor cleaning methods, then rust will form at the point of the damage. The best news is that, with just a little care, the chromium oxide can heal itself and make your appliance rust-resistant again.

How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel

There are several methods through which you can effectively remove rust from your stainless steel appliances and utensil. Here are a few practical options:

Method 1: Use Baking Soda

For this method, you are going to need:

Baking Soda
Soft cloth
Paper towels
Soft bristle brush
Water

Here is what you do:

Rinse the surface area of the appliance or utensil: Use the soft cloth to thoroughly rinse the entire surface of the particular utensil or appliance in question. The idea here is to dampen the entire area that is showing rust. As soon as it is damp enough, sprinkle a layer of your baking soda over its entirety. Be sure to have a healthy coat on the entire rusted area.
Let it sit: Once you have covered the entire area, let the baking soda sit on the surface for at least an hour.
Scrub with your soft bristle brush: After the hour (or more) has elapsed, it’s time to start scrubbing using the soft bristle brush. If you don’t have a brush handy, you can simply use an old toothbrush. Scrub the entire surface thoroughly.
Rinse with clean water: Once you have ensured that the entire surface has been thoroughly scrubbed, rinse it off with clean water to see how well you have done and dry it off with paper towels.

This method almost always works, but it might not prove as effective when it comes to rustier appliances and utensils. In that case, you need to use something a little bit stronger.

Method 2: Use Vinegar to Remove Rust on Stainless Steel

For this method, you are going to need:

White distilled vinegar
Clean cloth
Water
Spray bottle
Scouring pa
Paper towels
Soap

This is one of the most effective methods to remove stainless steel:

Rinse the surface with water: Spray the infected surface with clean water and make sure to wipe it clean with a cloth.
Mix white distilled vinegar with water: Using a ratio of 1:1, mix the white distilled vinegar with water and spray that mixture all over the rust infected surface.
Let the mixture sit: Once you have sprayed the sticky vinegar mixture all over the infected surface, let it sit for a few minutes (5-10 minutes), so it properly soaks into the metal.
Use the scouring pad to scrub the surface: With the scouring pad, lightly scrub the surface of the utensil or appliance along the grain to remove the rust without creating any more scratches.

Once all the rust is gone, wash the surface with soap and water then completely dry with paper towels.

Worst Rust Removal Practices

There is a very good reason why both these rust removal methods include the use of soft bristle brushes, soft clothes, and paper towels. That is because certain practices won’t work when it comes to learning how to remove rust from stainless steel. One of those includes the use of steel wool and steel brushes.

You also want to stay away from cleaners that have chlorine, bromine, fluorine, or iodine in them. Anything that falls under the chloride family is not good for rust removal. This is because all these items tend to be abrasive and will work towards further scratching and marring the “stainless” surface, thus making the utensils and appliances even more susceptible to rust corrosion.

How to Keep Stainless Steel from Rusting

While these cleaning methods are effective enough, it is often best to prevent the rust from occurring in the first place as opposed to trying to get it off once it has formed. Here are some tips and tricks that you can use to keep stainless steel from rusting:

Don’t wash using abrasive materials: One of the reasons why rust forms on stainless steel is because the thin layer of chromium chloride that is supposed to protect the utensil or appliance from rusting is scratched. Washing your stainless steel cookware with abrasive materials such as steel wool or cleaners that fall under the chloride family will further exacerbate this situation. The best approach is to use mild soap and soft bristle brushes or clothes.
Don’t let them air dry: For the most part, people tend to let their utensils air dry as a way to save themselves the extra work that comes with drying them using a cloth or paper towel. The prolonged exposure to water droplets encourages the formation of rust on your utensils. The best approach here is to use a paper towel or a soft cloth to dry off your utensils immediately after washing them and before putting them away.

All you have to do is a little maintenance to ensure that your stainless steel utensils and appliances don’t form rust. However, if they do, the above-outlaid methods will help you learn how to get rust off stainless steel as well as how to keep it off!

This post was last updated on August 21st, 2020 at 12:06 pm

Learning how to clean stainless steel gas cooktops can be quick and easy if you know the right steps and materials to use. Stainless steel is a highly durable material that resists corrosion and staining.

However, it still needs to be maintained and cleaned regularly to look its best. Some methods are better for daily cleaning while others are good for deeper cleans, and there are a few things to avoid.

What cleaning agents can you use? How frequently should you clean? Hopefully these instructions will help keep your stainless steel appliances in good condition. I have a guide on selecting the best kitchen degreaser.

3 Ways to Clean a Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop

Method One: Mild Soap and Water

Why It Works

Daily maintenance is key when keeping your stainless steel stove looking beautiful. Mild soap and water are supplies you likely have on hand on any given day, and this simple routine can keep your cooktop looking clean and bright.

Try to follow these steps each time you finish cooking with your stove top to avoid any major grease or oil buildup.

Materials Needed

Warm water
Mild dish detergent or cleaning soap
Rag or sponge
Dry towel

Step 1

Place a few drops of mild dish soap onto your sponge or cleaning rag.

Step 2

Run your kitchen faucet until the water turns warm, and then dampen your rag or sponge. Warm water works best because it creates more soap suds. Gently work the water into your sponge until you see a soapy foam. Don’t run the water too hard or it will wash all your dish soap out of your sponge.

Step 3

Rub your dampened rag or sponge onto your stainless steel gas cooktop. Like wood, most stainless steel has a minute grain or pattern that you can discern upon close inspection. Try to move your sponge along this pattern to ensure a more polished finish.

Note: If there are any tough grease spots on your cooktop, place a few drops of dish soap directly onto the grease stain before you apply your wet sponge.

Dish soap will emulsify the oil in the grease stain, which makes lifting the grease easier. If you apply water first, the grease stain will only smear when you try to scrub at it since grease naturally repels water. Soap is needed to break down the oils before they can be fully removed.

Step 4

After all crumbs and food stains have been removed by the soap, take a clean and dry towel and buff the surface of your stove top dry.

Method Two: Vinegar

Why It Works

Stainless steel is susceptible to iridescent rainbow-like smears that look similar to an oil slick. These smears can occur after normal washing or cooking, and they are harmless but annoying.

Fortunately, vinegar can clean them away in a flash and return your stainless steel to its original finish because of its reactive properties. Vinegar is acidic and reacts to the metals in stainless steel.

While acidic substances can be harmful to stainless steel if left to sit for extended periods, their chemical reactions can provide superior cleaning. White vinegar also naturally fights off bacteria and harmful microbes, so it can keep your stove hygienic too.

Materials Needed

White vinegar
Cleaning sponge
Warm water
Dry towel

Step 1

Pour some white vinegar onto a water-dampened sponge. You only need a small amount. If you use the cap of the vinegar bottle as a pouring guide, you will need a maximum of two cap-fulls of vinegar for your sponge.

Step 2

Rub your sponge over the surface of your stainless steel stove top. An added advantage of this method is that vinegar can cut through grease and stains just as well as dish soap.

Step 3

Allow the vinegar to sit for one to two minutes. While you are waiting, rinse your sponge thoroughly in warm water and make sure it is free from any residue from the vinegar.

Step 4

When the time is up, dampen your sponge with plain warm water. Wipe down your cooktop in the same places you covered with white vinegar. Then dry with a towel. You should notice that your stove top looks like new.

Method Three: Store-Bought Chemicals

Why It Works

When deep cleaning is needed, stronger chemicals are usually required. These chemicals have harsher agents that immediately cut through stains and grease with minimal waiting or effort.

Some commonly known chemicals that are usually considered safe for stainless steel include Barkeeper’s Friend and Comet. If you are cleaning your stove daily with simple soap and water, harsher chemicals can be used every week or month in order to get a deeper clean.

Materials Needed

Store-bought cleaning agents
Rag or sponge

Step 1

Real the label of any chemical you use to clean your stainless steel stove. Make sure it is safe to use with your stove. Open windows for ventilation if necessary.

Step 2

Apply the chemicals with your sponge or rag. Usually this is done similarly to how you would normally clean your stove with soap and water. Rub in the direction of the stainless steel grain.

Step 3

Most cleaning agents do not require rinsing, but if the one you’re using does, wipe down stove again with plain water. Buff everything dry with a towel.

Things to Avoid when Cleaning

Abrasive sponges like steel wool. They may scratch your stainless steel.
Leaving vinegar or other harsh chemicals on for too long. Doing so may cause pitting or marks in your stainless steel cooktop.
Rubbing against the grain of stainless steel. While not immediately harmful, not being mindful of the grain can result in a duller shine.
Leaving puddles of water. Though stainless steel resists rust and corrosion, it’s always better to dry everything thoroughly when finished.
Cleaning stove while heat is turned on. Doing so may result in your burning your skin. A rag or sponge can easily catch fire, too, if it brushes up against a hot burner.

Polishing Your Stainless Steel Cooktop

Sometimes your stainless steel cooktop may start looking dull even though you clean it every day. Keep your stove looking shiny and new by using a polishing agent.

These items usually come packaged in aerosol cans at the store. You can spray them directly onto your stove top as advised by the bottle and then rub them in with a rag.

Usually these polishes do not need to be rinsed or wiped clean. As before, always rub in the direction of the stainless steel grain.

This polish can also be used on any other stainless steel appliance in your kitchen to keep everything uniform and gleaming.

Conclusion

Keeping a clean stainless steel gas stove top is important to your stove’s life and well-being. Clean it each day and your stove should keep working and functioning for many years without problems. Thanks to the durability of stainless steel, maintenance should not be too difficult if it is done daily.