Stainless steel appliances give your kitchen a sleek and modern look, but you may have noticed how easily fingerprints and smudges dull their shine. That’s why we’ve prepared a handy guide so you keep your glossy appliances in pristine condition safely. Check it out!
Two crucial things to avoid when cleaning stainless steel
Even if the stainless steel is sturdy, it doesn’t mean nothing can wear it down. So, here’s what you need to avoid to prevent damaging your stainless steel appliances:
Cleaning against the grain
Like wood, stainless steel has a grain you can see (or feel). Cleaning in its opposite direction can make tiny fibres or other particles stuck on it, dulling the glossy appearance. Even worse, tiny scratches can accumulate until the finish is beyond repair.
Using abrasive cleaners or materials
Steel wool and cleaners containing ammonia or chlorine will quickly ruin your stainless steel surfaces. However, these are not the only products that can cause damage, so please check your appliance’s product recommendations to choose the proper cleaning solutions.
How to clean your stainless steel appliances
To successfully clean stainless steel, going against the surface’s grain and using abrasive products are big no-nos, but what about the things you can and should do? You’ll find the answer by following these steps:
Step #1. Dust off your appliances
Sometimes, the only thing your stainless steel appliances need to shine again is a good ol’ dusting. Feather dusters and regular rags can leave residue, so we recommend using a microfiber cloth, which is also very gentle on the appliance’s finish when used right.
To avoid doing extra work, dust your appliance—following the grain—from the highest point to the lowest. That way, dust won’t resettle on the lower sections, and you’ll finish cleaning faster.
Pro tip: Can’t find the direction of the grain? Use your fingers to feel where it goes.
Step #2. Get (or make) a safe cleaning solution
Products like Bar Keepers Friend (or even glass cleaners) work well and keep your stainless steel safe. However, there are natural options you can quickly make from the comfort of your home—and save a few bucks! These are two excellent alternatives:
- Baking soda and dish soap. Make this effective solution by mixing two cups of warm water, one teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of mild dish soap into a spray bottle. Shake well to use this combo’s full cleaning power.
- Vinegar and water. This is the perfect solution if you’re dealing with hard water spots (like on your sink). All you need to do is mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
Step #3. Apply your cleaning solution
Once you have your preferred solution ready, spray it all over your appliance’s surface and wait for five to ten minutes to pass, depending on the level of grime. If you notice the solution dries too fast, spray a little more before the time’s up.
Note: If you stick with store-bought cleaners, keep in mind they have specific instructions to avoid damage. If you’re unsure, spot-test the product in an inconspicuous place first.
Step #4. Wipe the grime off
After the allotted time is over, grab a clean microfiber cloth and wipe away the dirt from your appliance. Use quick but firm straight movements, always along the grain—don’t use circular motions; however, using a little elbow grease on tough spots is fine!
Once done, dampen another clean microfiber cloth and rinse the surface.
Step #5. Dry the appliance’s surface
Even a tiny droplet of water on your appliance’s surface can leave stains once dry. So, grab a clean microfiber rag and dry any lingering moisture (always minding the grain!).
You can even go further and buff your appliance once dry with another clean cloth. Hopefully, the appliance’s surface is now glossy!
How about keeping the rest of your house clean too?
Clean appliances deserve to be in a kitchen that matches their spotless look! If you don’t have the time to make it happen, Maids in Pink offers premium cleaning services at affordable rates. Let our experienced cleaners keep your home sparkling clean no matter what.