If you are thinking of having stainless steel appliances or fixtures in your new home, knowing how to clean them is essential. After all, not all kitchen cleaning is the same, and understanding the most effective ways of cleaning stainless steel — as well as what not to do — will ensure all appliances and fixtures last a long time and stay in great shape.
Refer to the User Manual
One of the first places to refer to when cleaning any appliance or fixture is the user manual. The user manual may have helpful (and specific) tips about the best methods of cleaning your stainless steel, including mentions of particular products to use. In some cases, it can also help you to avoid other products.
Of course, if you do not have specific instructions, there are many excellent methods for properly cleaning stainless steel appliances or surfaces.
Stainless Steel Cleaning Methods
There are countless effective ways of cleaning stainless steel. Fortunately for homeowners, many DIY formulas will allow you to clean stainless steel in a user-friendly, simple, and ultimately cost-effective manner. Read on to learn about some great methods of kitchen cleaning for stainless steel, many of which can be started with items you may already have in your kitchen.
Vinegar and Olive Oil
For this method of cleaning stainless steel, you will need the following supplies:
- Distilled white vinegar
- Olive oil
- Non-abrasive microfiber cloths (this is crucial: avoid abrasive scratch pads, steel wool, or similar products)
- Spray bottle
To clean your stainless steel appliance or fixture, first, identify the grain in the stainless steel, and clean “with” it (not “against” it). Spray the stainless steel with vinegar and wipe the vinegar off with the microfiber cloth (moving with the grain). Finally, using a second cloth, gently wipe a little olive oil onto the stainless steel, again moving with the grain, to provide a clean finish.
Club Soda
For this method of cleaning stainless steel, you will need the following supplies:
- Club soda
- Non-abrasive microfiber cloths
- Spray bottle
Using this basic method, simply fill your spray bottle with club soda, spray it onto the stainless steel, and wipe (with the grain) using a microfiber cloth.
Dish Soap and Baby Oil or Mineral Oil
For this method of cleaning stainless steel, you will need the following supplies:
- Dishwashing liquid
- Baby oil or mineral oil
- Non-abrasive microfiber cloths
- Warm water
- Small, clean bucket
Mix dishwashing liquid with water in a small bucket, diluting the dish liquid. Using a microfiber cloth, use the solution to clean stainless steel, again moving with the grain. After letting the appliance dry, apply oil to the stainless steel (with the grain) to ensure a smooth and shiny finish.
Specialized Stainless Steel Cleaner
It is also worth noting that there are a number of specialized stainless steel cleaners on the market that can provide a smooth finish to stainless steel. For some, these are helpful options for kitchen cleaning and allow you to avoid making a cleaner on your own. As noted, a specialized stainless steel cleaner may be especially right for your appliance or fixture when recommended by the user manual.
However, it is important to note that regular use of stainless steel cleaners can sometimes leave smudges over time and lead stainless steel to collect dust. If not specifically advertised by the user manual, you may be better off making your own solution.
Stainless Steel Cleaning Precautions
It is easy to effectively clean stainless steel — including with many DIY methods — in ways that preserve the material and keep it looking great over time. However, there are also several ways to poorly clean stainless steel and damage the material.
When working with stainless steel, here are some precautions to make, and things to avoid in the kitchen cleaning process.
Do Not Use Harsh or Abrasive Materials
Harsh and abrasive materials are one of the quickest ways to damage stainless steel and ruin its appearance. This applies both to cleaning products, and to methods of application.
In terms of the former, avoid harsh products, including ammonia, bleach, and any similar scouring powders. These products can quickly damage the look of stainless steel and potentially degrade the material.
Similarly, avoid rough methods of application, like scouring pads, steel wool, and other harsh brushes or bristles. These textures can easily scratch stainless steel and leave it looking worse for the wear.
Finally, it is worth considering using distilled water when cleaning stainless steel. While hard water will not truly “damage” stainless steel, it can lead mineral deposits to buildup on the material. This may worsen the look of stainless steel or require more frequent cleaning.
Do not Stress Over It
It is also important to remember that stainless steel is a highly durable material. Under most circumstances, it does not require daily — or even weekly — cleaning.
In other words — do not stress too much about keeping your stainless steel highly polished all the time. Appliances and fixtures need to be used, so naturally will accumulate some smudges and stains. Cleaning every couple of weeks or so should be more than sufficient, in most cases, to keep your stainless steel durable and looking great.
Conclusion
Stainless steel is a great material for kitchen fixtures or appliances. It is durable, resilient, strong, and long-lasting. With a little extra attention — outlined in the tips above — you can keep it looking fantastic, with minimal cost and effort.
Of course, what is the use of great-looking stainless steel without a beautiful home to put it in? JTB Homes is an experienced, high-quality home builder in West Michigan, and we can help you understand all the appliances and surfaces in your new home and how to care for them. If you are considering purchasing or building a new home in West Michigan, contact JTB Homes. We have over 80 years of experience in home construction.
Do not wait! Visit JTB Homes online or contact us at 616-916-8895 today.
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