How to Clean Your Stainless Steel Appliances

If you have any stainless steel appliances in your home, you know they look great no matter where they are – or what they are, be it microwaves or built-in ovens, for instance. However, stainless steel might show water marks or fingerprints over time, which can detract from the pristine gleam of your kitchen.

With such a popular material that is the personal preference of many, knowing how to properly clean it becomes essential. After all, with a good cleaning and maintenance routine in place, you can keep your appliances looking new for many years to come.

Which Cleaning Product Should You Use?

The good news is that you don’t have to invest in expensive cleaners. Many commercial products are actually too harsh to use on stainless steel surfaces, meaning you can create your own and keep your appliances in tip top shape on a regular basis.

Mix equal parts of water and vinegar and use it on your appliances; if they don’t have persistent marks, this mixture can wipe them clean without a problem. If, on the other hand, your stainless steel has stains difficult to remove, use baking soda and vinegar instead. This blend is incredibly useful to remove them and won’t damage the material.

Think of the Grain

Many materials, such as wood, have a grain, which are faint striations on its surface. Stainless steel is the same. A whole sheet of this material will present grain in the same direction, so it pays to take a look at your appliance and confirm if it’s horizontal or vertical.

While cleaning a surface contrary to the direction of the grain will not damage the appliance in any way, it can cause small dirt particles to get stuck on the little crevices of the grain. In time, this can reduce the shine of the stainless steel, which will make it lose that brand-new appearance.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Efficiently

The best way to wipe clean stainless steel surfaces is by using a soft, lint-free cloth and gently clean the surface in the direction of the grain to avoid leaving dirt behind. Avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the steel; you can use paper towels if you so wish, as well as microfibre cloths – anything that won’t leave fibre residues behind.

To remove the cleaning solution, rinse the appliance’s surface with hot water and dry immediately.

Here at Walworth Appliances, we want you to have the best-looking appliances possible and prevent them from losing their shiny new look over time. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re looking for an appliance for your home or if you need speedy repairs!