BLOGS

Make Your Stainless Steel Appliances Spotless

We often spend more time in the kitchen this time of year, and our appliances take a hit for it. While stainless steel appliances add a sleek, modern touch to any kitchen, they’re notorious for showing smudges, fingerprints, and streaks. Keeping them clean after all the cooking and guest visits is key to maintaining their elegance and functionality. Whether you’re tackling grease, water stains, or fingerprints, we at McCaleb Homes want to give you some cleaning methods that will help you restore the shine to your stainless steel surfaces and thus keep your home shining bright.

Understand the Grain

Before you even start cleaning, take a close look at your stainless steel appliance. You’ll notice the surface has a “grain,” or small lines running in one direction. Always clean and polish along the grain to ensure you avoid scratching and achieve the best results.

Use Warm Water and a Microfiber Cloth

For routine cleaning, warm water and a microfiber cloth can work wonders.

• How to Clean: Dampen the cloth with warm water and wipe the surface along the grain.
• Why It Works: This simple method removes light smudges and dust without introducing harsh chemicals.
• Bonus Tip: Use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface after cleaning for added shine.

Try Dish Soap for Grease

Dawn is famous for cleaning oily duck for a reason. For oily smudges or light grease buildup on your appliances, mild dish soap is a safe and effective option.

• How to Clean: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. Dip your microfiber cloth into the soapy solution, wring it out, and wipe down the surface.
• Rinse: Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
• Dry: As previously mentioned, use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the appliance.

Polish up with White Vinegar and Olive Oil

This natural method is a favorite for cleaning and polishing stainless steel.

• How to Clean: Spray white vinegar directly onto the stainless steel surface. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe it down along the grain.
• Polish: Add a small amount of olive oil to a clean cloth and buff the surface in the direction of the grain for a shiny, streak-free finish.
• Why It Works: Vinegar cuts through grime, while olive oil leaves a protective, polished sheen.

Use Baking Soda for Stubborn Stains or Stainless Steel Cleaners for a Professional Finish

If you’re dealing with water spots or stubborn stains, baking soda can help.

• How to Clean: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the stain and gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge in the direction of the grain. If using the cleaner, apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically spraying it on and wiping it off with a microfiber cloth. These cleaners are specially formulated to remove smudges, streaks, and fingerprints while protecting the surface.
• Rinse and Dry: Wipe away the paste or cleaner with a damp cloth, then buff with a dry microfiber cloth.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

While stainless steel is durable, certain cleaning products and techniques can damage it.

• Skip Abrasives: Avoid steel wool, scrubbing pads, and harsh powders, which can scratch the surface.
• No Chlorine: Avoid bleach or products containing chlorine, as they can cause discoloration or corrosion.
• Limit Water: Excess water can leave streaks or cause water spots. Always dry your appliance after cleaning.

Add to the glow of your McCaleb home by keeping your stainless steel appliances shiny and spotless. Doing so regularly will help it to not become a chore. With the right techniques and regular maintenance, you can enjoy the sleek, modern appeal of stainless steel without the hassle of streaks or smudges. Choose the cleaning method that works best for you, and let your appliances shine like new!

By McCaleb Homes Staff 12-1-2024