Maintaining the sleek appearance of stainless steel appliances can be a challenge, but with the right cleaning methods, you can keep them looking spotless. Whether you’re dealing with a greasy oven door in your Dallas, TX home, a Phoenix, AZ rental, or a Tampa, FL apartment, knowing how to clean stainless steel appliances properly is essential.
This guide covers everything you need to know to clean and maintain your kitchen appliances.
Step-by-step: How to clean stainless steel appliances
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine with simple tools is key to keeping your stainless steel appliances looking their best.
Steven Pizollo from Carpentry Innovations in Ridgewood, NJ, recommends the following DIY method:
- Dampen the cloth. Use a terry cloth or microfiber cloth that’s damp to avoid water spots.
- Add dish soap. Apply a small amount of mild dish soap like Dawn to the damp cloth.
- Wipe the surface. Gently wipe down the appliance in the direction of the grain.
- Rinse with a clean cloth. Use a fresh cloth dampened with water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry and buff. Finish by buffing the surface with a dry cloth to restore the shine.
>>Read: How to Clean Your Dishwasher and Improve Its Efficiency
What can you use to clean stainless steel appliances?
When cleaning stainless steel appliances, it’s best to use mild and non-abrasive methods. Architect Dusko Medakovic of Archiinterdes recommends avoiding harsh cleaning products and using:
- Soft microfiber or terry cloth
- Cleaning agents designed for stainless steel
- A water and baking soda solution for tough stains
For a non-toxic option, Jen from Mom Remedy suggests using her brand’s hydrogen peroxide formula for a streak-free finish.
DIY stainless steel cleaning methods that actually work
If you prefer natural solutions, these DIY cleaning tips are safe and effective.
Baking soda and cooking oil
DIY blogger Nikole of My Growing Creative Life recommends a paste of baking soda and cooking oil to clean stainless steel surfaces effectively.
Vinegar and water
Recipe blogger Kim Artlip suggests a mixture of vinegar, water, and dish soap for a natural cleaning solution.
Lint-free cloth and white vinegar
Sylvain Fortin of Caron And Doucet recommends using a lint-free cloth dampened with white vinegar to clean stainless steel surfaces.
How to remove tough stains on stainless steel
For stubborn stains, a combination of baking soda, vinegar, or a specialized cleaner can help remove rust, hard water marks, and grime.
- Apply a baking soda paste
- Let it sit
- Gently scrub
- Rinse and dry
Using a stainless steel cleaner can also help prevent future buildup and maintain the appliance’s finish.
Pro-level products and methods for extra shine
For a professional touch, consider using a specialty cleaner that offers long-term protection for stainless steel appliances.
Tara Abraham of Everbrite Coatings recommends the CrobialCoat Appliance Kit for a protective coating that helps prevent fingerprints and water spots.
Daniel from SardelKitchen suggests using heat to remove stuck-on food from stainless steel surfaces.
What not to use on stainless steel appliances?
Avoid using steel wool, bleach, glass cleaner, or paper towels on stainless steel appliances as they can damage the finish. Instead, opt for a clean microfiber cloth for regular light cleaning.
FAQs on how to clean stainless steel appliances
1. Can you use vinegar on stainless steel appliances?
Yes, vinegar is safe to use on stainless steel appliances when paired with a microfiber cloth.
2. What is the best homemade stainless steel cleaner?
A mix of vinegar, water, and dish soap is a great homemade cleaner for stainless steel surfaces.
3. Is olive oil good for stainless steel?
A small amount of olive or mineral oil can add shine to stainless steel appliances.
4. How often should you clean stainless steel appliances?
Light weekly cleaning is recommended, with additional wipes for high-use appliances to prevent buildup.
5. Can you use Windex on stainless steel?
Avoid using Windex or other glass cleaners on stainless steel appliances as they can cause streaking or damage.
6. How do I identify the direction of the grain?
Always wipe in the direction of the grain to prevent streaks and preserve the finish of stainless steel appliances.
Final thoughts: How to clean stainless steel appliances
By following these professional cleaning tips, you can maintain the appearance and durability of your stainless steel appliances without the need for harsh chemicals. Keep your kitchen looking its best with these simple, safe, and effective cleaning methods.