How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances
There’s a reason stainless steel appliances are popular. They’re simplistic, sleek and add to the contemporary look of your kitchen. Unfortunately, it can be quite difficult to clean a stainless steel appliance. Stainless steel is a magnet for fingerprints, water marks, and smudges which stand out on the shiny surface which can make these blemishes the star attraction in your kitchen. If you want to keep your stainless steel appliance shiny and clean, you’ll have some work to do.
Do you know how to properly clean your stainless steel appliances? Here are some of the basic do’s and don’ts of keeping your kitchen clean and sharp.
DO Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions
There are many do-it-yourself and commercial products that you can use to remove water marks and fingerprints from stainless steel. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if you need to use a specific cleaning product on your stainless steel appliance. Some brands recommend specific cleaners that should be used in other areas of the kitchen in order to avoid damage to your stainless steel finish from cleaning solution fumes.
If you go rogue and choose your own products, you risk voiding a warranty. Many large kitchen appliances are pricey, and you might not want to void the warranty. Take time to read the care instructions to ensure you comply with the warranty.
DON’T Use Abrasive Products
Since your appliance is made from metal, some people may believe they may be able to clean their stainless steel appliance with anything. However, the material on your appliances are easy to scratch and since the stainless steel finish may be part of the reason you bought the appliance scratches are something you’ll want to avoid.
Abrasive cleansers and tools, including oven cleaner, ammonia, scouring powder, bleach, scrubber pads, and steel wool. If you have area has hard water, you should consider using distilled water. While hard water won’t damage the steel, it can leave water spots and unsightly streaks.
DO Know Which Homemade Stainless Steel Cleaners You Should Use
What products should you use when you clean your stainless steel appliances? Here are three DIY options.
Note: Regardless of the homemade cleaner you choose, make sure to perform a spot test on an inconspicuous area os your appliance before using the cleaner on the full unit.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances with Vinegar and Olive Oil
Supplies:
Distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle
Olive oil
Microfiber Cloths
Determine which direction the “grain” of the stainless steel runs. You need to clean the appliance in that direction.
Spray the surface of the appliance with distilled vinegar.
Use the microfiber cloth, going in the direction of the grain, to wipe off the vinegar.
Dip a clean cloth into the olive oil.
Use the microfiber cloth, going in the direction of the grain to rub the olive oil into the stainless steel to help restore the shine.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances with Dish Soap and Baby Oil
Supplies:
Mild dishwashing liquid
Baby oil
Warm water
Microfiber Cloths
In a clean bucket or empty sink, mix dishwashing liquid and water.
Dampen the microfiber cloth in the soapy solution and wipe away fingerprints and sponges. Work in the direction of the grain.
After the appliance dries, dip a clean cloth in baby oil.
Rub the baby oil into the appliance, in the direction of the grain to bring back the stainless steel’s shine.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances with Club Soda
Supplies:
Club soda
A spray bottle
A microfiber cloth
Pour club soda into the bottle.
Spray the club soda on the side of the appliance.
Use the microfiber cloth, in the direction of the grain and wipes away the soda.
DON’T Hesitate to Call in a Pro
Do you have time to clean your kitchen? If you don’t, we can help you. Contact the cleaning professionals at Denver House Cleaning Services. We can help you step up your cleaning game by lending a hand. We can restore your kitchen’s shine, so you can spend time doing the things you enjoy.