"Scratch-Free: How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances"
Stainless steel is a popular choice for appliances because it's durable and resistant to corrosion. However, its rough surface can be prone to fingerprints and ...
How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances Without Scratching is an art that requires patience, the right materials, and some elbow grease. If you're like many homeowners who have stainless steel appliances, you're likely no stranger to the battle of keeping them looking their best. However, it's easy to damage the finish if you're not careful.
Making the right cleaning tools and techniques a habit will keep your appliances looking new for a long time.
Understanding Your Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel is a popular choice for appliances because it's durable and resistant to corrosion. However, its rough surface can be prone to fingerprints and smudges. What makes it vulnerable to scratches is the chromium content within the steel, which gives it its protective oxide layer.
When you spot a scratch, tackle it with some detailed care, as outlined below:
Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools
Not all cleaning agents work well on stainless steel without leaving residue or causing discoloration. While commercial cleaners may promise the world, it's generally better to opt for natural products or avoid them altogether if unsure. Examples include baking soda and vinegar solutions. Using microfiber cloths is your best bet for gentle cleaning.
A microfiber cloth won't scratch the surface of your appliance and can be easily washed and reused.
Best Cleaning Methods for Scratches
Removing the effects of a scratch can be made much simpler by using specialized products specifically aimed at stainless steel. These sprays usually don't contain chemicals that could harm anyone inside the house.
However, there are steps you can take to further remove heavy stains more effectively:
- Baking soda
- Club soda
- Cleaning wipes with stainless steel protectant
How to Avoid Scratches in the Future
Some measures you can take to prevent scratches:
- Randomly buffing surfaces daily or weekly to prevent fingerprints and smudges from building up
- Touch-up a worn, pitted area
- Apply a stainless steel protectant to the area and your tools of use
Comparing Popular Cleaning Methods
| Method | Efficacy | |
|---|---|---|
| Fine-grit sandpaper | below 80–80% | little |
| Microfiber cloth and vinegar | 85–95% | negligible |
| Cleaning product & water | 90–99% | some |
| Brasso or Simoniz | 98–100% | Some |
