Make Your Stainless Steel Stunning Again

3.19.18

Make Your Stainless Steel Stunning Again

It’s no mystery why stainless steel is such a popular choice amongst consumers. The shiny metallic surface not only complements just about every kitchen style, it’s also incredibly durable with a long life span. Stainless steel won’t fade, discolor, rust, or stain, and can maintain its beautiful qualities for several years to come. So it will always look brand new, right? Of course! That is, unless you plan on actually using them.

While stainless steel is stain-resistant, it is still susceptible to regular kitchen messes and fingerprints. Simply opening your fridge door after slicing some potatoes and your sleek showroom can quickly turn into a showcase for smudges. Hey, messes will happen – especially in the kitchen. But don’t get discouraged! Cleaning stainless steel is actually easier than you think, and you don’t even have to use harsh chemicals! Follow these step-by-step directions to get your stainless steel back to stunning with natural products you already have in your cupboard.

1. Find The Grain

Just like wood, stainless steel has a visible grain. Get up close and personal with your stainless steel and look closely for the faint grooves that give your appliances the brushed metal appearance. Each sheet of stainless steel will have the same groove direction, though keep in mind the grain of handles and knobs may go in a different direction. As you clean your stainless steel, you’ll want to go along the grain to avoid filling the crevices with the grime and residue you are trying to remove.

2. Choose a Soft Cloth

It’s important to never use an abrasive cloth or material when cleaning your stainless steel as these will cause tiny scratching that can quickly become a big problem. Instead, choose a microfiber or cotton cloth that won’t leave behind watermarks or residue. Paper towels can work just as well, though they can leave behind unwanted lint..

3. Mix a Vinegar & Water Solution

Cleaning your stainless steel doesn’t necessarily require a steel-specific cleaning product. In fact, a simple mix of vinegar and water are enough to remove any grease and grime while disinfecting the surface. Just be sure to always dilute the vinegar with water since it’s an acid and can potentially corrode mineral deposits. Simply mix 1 part distilled white vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle and start cleaning (along the grain, of course)!

4. Polish with Oil

Once your appliance is completely clean, it’s time to get that gleaming shine back with a little rubdown of oil. All you need is a clean, dry soft cloth or paper towel and a small glob of olive oil or coconut oil. Rub your appliance along the grain using long, straight strokes until it has that “wet” look. Grab another clean cloth to polish your appliance by wiping away any excess oil. This process will give your appliance a gorgeous shine and finish!

Now simply stand back and enjoy your brand new (looking) appliances!