Best Methods to Clean Stainless Steel

When purchasing major kitchen appliances, one thing homeowners tend to forget about is the maintenance and upkeep stainless steel finished products require. Stainless steel is a beautiful, shiny material that is the most popular and versatile finish for home appliances. However, it does tend to be very receptive to fingerprints, watermarks, and streaks from daily use. We have gathered some of the best methods for cleaning stainless steel appliances – both at home and store-bought – that will leave your appliances looking brand all the time.

At-Home Remedies

Vinegar and Olive Oil

This is the most popular at-home solution for cleaning stainless steel appliances.

Spray your appliance with vinegar
Use a microfiber towel and wipe in the direction of the grain
Dip your towel in oil (a little goes a long way)
Wipe once more with the grain to polish your appliance.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

Many swear by using baking soda and vinegar, their stainless steel appliances are cleaner and shinier than ever.

Clean the appliance with soap and water
Spray area with vinegar
Sprinkle the area with baking soda
Dampen a sponge with vinegar and scrub the appliance to remove the grub. Always go with the grain!
Dry with a microfiber cloth

*We recommend using Apple Cider Vinegar on stainless steel sinks because it is less harsh than White Vinegar.

stainless steel appliances are known for their beautiful, vibrant shine. to keep it this way, homeowners must use a cleaning method to rid of any grime, fingerprints, and watermarks.

Store-Bought Cleaners

If your at-home remedies aren’t doing the job for tough stains from your major appliances, or if you just prefer having the solution doing the job for you, store-bought cleaners are a safe bet for ridding of any grime and grease.

Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner

Many online customers are raving about Weiman stainless steel cleaners. They have cleaners available in wipes, spray, and polish. This cleaner not only brightens, and adds a shine to your appliances, but adds a protective coat to prevent fingerprint marks and smudges.

Affresh Stainless Steel Cleaning Spray

This spray is the number one recommended from both Whirlpool and KitchenAid. This is a gentle cleaner that is very easily applied and removed when in use.

Therapy Premium Stainless Steel Cleaner

If you are looking for a product that uses natural ingredients, Therapy’s premium stainless steel cleaner is for you. This product leaves a coconut-based protective shine to keep those fingerprints and smudges away.

Additional Tips

Microfiber Towels

Many homeowners, designers, and home professionals swear by using microfiber cloths for stainless steel. Their soft and non-abrasive material is perfect for finishes that are easily scratched or damaged. They are available for bulk buy at a cheap price, too!

Avoid These Mistakes

When cleaning stainless, avoid using abrasive cleaners such as wool and steel brushes. These cleaners leave small particles behind that will stain and leave rust on the appliance. Bleach should not be used on stainless steel, either. Any type of chlorine and stainless does not mix well together. Using harsh water could be the issue of the water stains on your appliances, not the method of cleaning. Be sure to check what kind of tap water is at your home and change plans accordingly.

Last, but not least.

Try to get into the habit of cleaning your appliances daily with hot, soapy water and using a microfiber cloth. This will make it easier for you to keep your appliances looking spotless 24/7!