Stainless steel is on-trend right now, thanks to its classic and timeless beauty and elegance. Not only does it make your home look sleek and modern, but it also ensures longevity and durability. That said, to maintain its aesthetic appearance and preserve its durability, stainless steel will need regular cleaning.
In this article, we’re sharing some dos and don’ts of stainless steel cleaning. You can also read these helpful tips for more information.
Table of Contents
Do Refer To The User Manual
Before you put your cleaning gloves on, it’s necessary to take a look at the user manual for your stainless steel appliances. Check for any cleaning recommendations and instructions to ensure proper and safer cleaning.
Do Use A Stainless Steel Cleanser Or DIY Cleaners
Instead of using bleach and other harsh cleaners, consider buying a stainless steel cleaner. You can find these in your local store in the kitchen cleaning supplies aisle. Then you can simply spray it on a cloth and wipe it down gently, followed by water to clean stainless steel surfaces.
In addition, you can also make one on your own with ingredients already in your kitchen. For instance, dishwashing soap and water mixture should be gentle enough to clean stainless steel. You can also use a mixture of vinegar, water, and olive oil for cleaning stainless steel surfaces.
Do Wipe In The Direction Of The Grain
Believe it or not, stainless steel also has a grain-like wood. You should be able to see lines on a stainless steel surface and feel its grain with your fingers.
While not cleaning in the direction of the grain won’t ruin your stainless steel appliances, it may cause streaking as more cleaning residue and grime on the steel get stuck into the tiny little crevices.
Thus, cleaning in the direction of the grain is the best way to go. It ensures a streak-free shine on your stainless steel appliance and items.
Do Use Filtered Water
This tip may not be necessary for everyone. But to be on the safer side, it’s always best to use filtered water. Tap water in some areas may contain harsh chemicals that could potentially discolor or pit your stainless steel. Plus, hard water can also leave water streaks and marks on your stainless steel items.
Don’t Use Bleach
Stainless steel is ‘stainless’ due to the protective layer created when chromium in the steel interacts with the oxygen in the air. If this protective layer is compromised, the metal beneath it can rust.
One thing that can compromise this layer of chromium oxide is wiping the surface with bleach, causing pitting or rust to form on your appliances.
So never use a bleaching solution when cleaning any stainless steel items. Also, make sure to read the labels of cleaning products you want to use to ensure that they don’t have bleach before using them on stainless steel products.
Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaning Tools
When you’re faced with stubborn gunk and dirt, the first thing you may think of is to scrub it hard using steel wool or other abrasive tools. However, you shouldn’t use it to clean stainless steel surfaces.
These tools can scratch the surface of your stainless steel, causing a dull overall appearance that you can’t reverse. If you want to address stubborn marks and grime, always choose a non-abrasive cleaner like a microfiber cloth.
Don’t Let Grime Sit
Grime, dirt, gunk, and grease tend to stick to your stainless steel surface if left to dry. And if you wish your stainless steel appliances to look new and gorgeous for longer, then you need to wipe up the gunk with a paper towel or a wet rag immediately before it has the chance to harden.
Not only does it help you avoid scrubbing, but it also helps preserve the grain of your steel. So, make sure to clean the small messes with water right away, especially in a stainless steel sink.
Don’t Let It Air Dry
Once you wipe your stainless steel appliance with water, don’t leave it to air dry since it causes visible streaks once the water dries.
Instead, make sure to do a follow-up with a paper towel or a dry microfiber cloth. Using a paper towel can reduce the risk of stains, but it also helps reduce streaks and miss dirt and dust. Plus, wiping it dry with a microfiber cloth can help buff the surface, providing a smooth, sparkly look.
Takeaway
From appliances to fixtures to home decor–stainless steel is a timeless choice for most homeowners. This metal is not only beautifully sleek and modern, but it’s also amazingly versatile and durable while remaining affordable.
That said, if you have several stainless steel items in your home, make sure to follow the above dos and don’ts to keep them looking as new as the day you bought them.
