Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances
 

Those with stainless steel appliances know the struggle of streaks, smudges, and fingerprints on their once-shining cookware. Brand new stainless steel appliances gleam, but with use, they get dirty and dull. Simply wiping down your fingerprint-covered stainless steel refrigerator won't do. Not just any old rag can restore your stainless steel sink, dishwasher, or oven. Cleaning stainless steel requires extra TLC and a strategy designed for this material.

Expert Advice

Gerrod Moore, a brand manager of Maytag, advises against uninformed stainless steel cleaning experimentation. Some kitchen cleaning go-tos like bleach, glass cleaner, abrasive cleaners, and steel wool may damage the metal. While random scrubbing is ill-advised, there's more than one way to clean stainless steel. Moore prefers formulas designed for the task but offers a DIY substitute if you don't have a specialty product. Alternate methods exist, and depending on the appliance, the manufacturer may have specific tips for best results. These expert-approved steps promise sparkling stainless steel every time.

What You'll Need:

• Soft microfiber cloth or non-scratch sponge

• Stainless steel cleaner or brightener (substitute: mild dish soap)

• Optional: Club soda, vinegar, mineral oil
   

How to Clean:

Here are Moore's steps to gleaming stainless steel:
 

How to Clean with Stainless Steel Cleaner:

1. Shake the cleaner well before spraying onto the surface.

2. Clean the surface with a microfiber towel.

3. Look for striations (grain) running vertically or horizontally in the stainless steel finish. Wipe the cleaner off in the direction of the grain.

4. Buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth in the direction of the grain until it shines.
    

How to Clean with Dish Soap:

1. Combine a few drops of soap with warm water.

2. Clean the surface with a microfiber towel.

3. Rinse it off with a soft, damp cloth.

4. Buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth in the direction of the grain until it shines.
    

Maintaining Shine

Maintenance is key for stainless steel appliances. Moore says regular cleaning keeps them glowing. Otherwise, avoid fingerprints and scratching with abrasive materials.
 

Using Oil and Vinegar

Many Southerners swear by vinegar for cleaning everything. Vinegar may be used in some cases to clean stainless steel, though Moore doesn't recommend it. White vinegar and olive oil can make stainless steel shine, but this method is best for sinks only. Sinks are prone to splashing, washing away residue quickly. On other appliances, this DIY duo may leave a slick film and odd smells.

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