Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

Stainless steel appliances undoubtedly make your kitchen sleek, chic, and modern. Your investment in stainless steel will also increase the value of your home. To keep your investment in top shape, having stainless steel cleaning supplies on hand is prudent. Proper cleaning supplies will keep your appliances shiny and hygienic without scratching the finish and dulling the shine.

Fingerprints

Some stainless steel appliances now have a finish that resists fingerprints – very much worth looking into if you are still in the buying stage. That being said, if you still have the more traditional finish, or even with the fingerprint resistant finish, you will need to clean prints at least every few days, perhaps daily if you have small children.

Wipes made specifically for cleaning stainless steel appliances are a handy solution for a quick, small wipe. Large grocery or discount stores should carry at least one type. A quick wipe around the handles and the center of the doors will help maintain the look of your appliances.

Don’t rely on the wipes for more intensive cleaning, though. For grease, handprints, and daily dirt, you will need a stronger solution.

Weekly Cleaning

The secret to clean and shining stainless steel appliances is that it is a three step process. Step one: clean with the cleaner of choice. Step two: buff dry to avoid water spots. Step three: finish with a fingerprint repellant solution.

The cloths you use can also make a difference; they need to be soft and lint-free. Cloth baby diapers, old clean t-shirts, and flannel squares will all do the job well.

The following is a thorough and inexpensive procedure: Step one: clean with a gentle dishwashing solution and water. Go both with and against the “grain.” Step two: buff and dry with a dry cloth diaper. Step three: put a very small amount of baby oil or WD-40 on a clean, dry cloth diaper and apply to your appliance. Wipe with a clean cloth until all the oil is gone.

Stainless Steel Cleaning Products

If you can find it, “Zep” foaming citrus cleaner and degreaser is an excellent cleaner. (the spray and wipes don’t work as well for this.) Stainless Steel Magic is a cleaner manufactured specifically for stainless steel that works particularly well and will not leave streaks.

Scratches in the Finish

Over time, your appliances will get scratches that can detract from the look of your kitchen. Using a stainless steel polish will minimize the scratches. One good polish is Sheila Shine. With all polishes, make sure that you have time to wipe away any extra polish immediately.