Maintaining the sleekness of stainless steel in our kitchens is a universal desire, but keeping it free from streaks and fingerprints can be a challenge. When stainless steel shines, it elevates the kitchen’s aesthetic, but when marred by marks, it can become a visual nuisance. In this article, we will share some tips on how to clean stainless steel kitchen surfaces/appliances.
While supermarket shelves offer numerous chemical-based cleaners for stainless steel, many prefer chemical-free options, particularly in homes with children. Ensuring that surfaces in contact with food are residue-free is essential for safety and hygiene.
Before delving into cleaning techniques, it’s crucial to understand that stainless steel, akin to wood, possesses a distinct grain. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice minute grooves resembling fibres, all running uniformly. For optimal results, when cleaning a stainless steel kitchen benchtop, follow the grain direction precisely.
1. Dish-washing liquid and baby oil
Cheap, harmless and extremely effective. This commonly used cleaning pair works stunning results on stainless appliances & surfaces!
Simply dampen your cloth with a modest amount of warm water and squeeze on a few drops of dish-washing liquid. Working with the grain, wipe over the stainless steel appliance, rubbing a little harder if needed to remove stubborn marks. When clean, dry the surface with a fresh towel.
Now for the polishing: take a soft, clean cloth and apply a few drops of baby oil (other mineral oils can also be used) and use this to rub over the stainless steel surface or appliance.
2. Water and a microfiber cloth
As a quick, during-the-day touch-up for your stainless steel surfaces or appliances (not your proper ‘cleaning day blitz’!) you’ll be pleasantly surprised to note how much you can achieve with a microfiber cloth and warm water.
By simply rubbing the stainless steel surface with a damp cloth then polishing with a dry, microfiber one, you can remove a lot of greasy little marks and stains.
3. Vinegar and oil
White vinegar is a powerful and effective household cleaner (and one that most of us have in our pantry all the time). Using a spray bottle, apply vinegar directly onto the stainless steel surface of the appliance and, following the grain, rub it clean with a soft, clean cloth. Apply a small amount of olive oil to a second cloth and polish the surface.
4. Glass cleaner
Mild glass cleaner is an excellent, quick clean-and-shine-in-one option. Simply spray directly onto the stainless steel appliance and rub off with a dry, clean cloth. Remember, if the stainless surface is to be in direct contact with food, this may not be your best option.
5. Baking soda
This is an effective cleaner, however, because you are dealing with a powder, care must be taken to ensure that you don’t scratch the surface.
Spray the stainless steel surface liberally with vinegar then sprinkle it with baking soda. Using a sponge or cloth dampened with vinegar, gently rub the surface to remove any marks, then rinse or wipe clean with warm water. Dry and polish the surface with a soft, clean cloth.
We hope you find these simple and essential tips on how to clean stainless steel kitchen surfaces/appliances helpful. For expert cleaning tips or assistance with kitchen renovations in Sydney, contact Wonderful Kitchens at 02 9772 2988.
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