Stainless steel appliances are known for their sleek, modern look. However, they are more prone to smudges, fingerprints, and streaks than other materials.

This article will provide steps on how to clean your stainless steel appliances properly, so you can manage any stains or smudges that get left behind.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to get a shiny, streak-free finish on all your steel appliances:

1. Gather Your Supplies

Make sure you have everything you need to finish the task smoothly. Don’t worry – most of these items are easily available at home. The list includes:

• Microfiber cloth
• Spray bottle
• Vinegar
• Dish soap
• Olive/mineral oil
• Stainless steel cleaner (optional)

Microfiber is the superhero in this game. It is soft enough to avoid scratches and effective at picking up dirt or grime. Once you have all the supplies at hand, it is time to learn how the process goes.

2. Test a Small Area

You should know that there are different types of stainless steel. You may need to experiment on a small, hidden area to determine what works for each appliance. With some trial, you can gauge the method that brings the best shine.

Not all store-bought or homemade cleaners give the same results. A quick patch test assures that the solution won’t cause discoloration, streaks, or damage to the appliance. 

We have all heard the adage – better safe than sorry. Right?

This step could save you from ruining the flawless appearance of your steel product.

3. Clean with Dish Soap and Water

Cleaning stainless steel with a blend of dish soap and water is probably the oldest yet effective method. Here is how to do it:

• Use a dry cloth to wipe the surface and remove dirt.
• Add a few drops of mild dish soap to a bowl of warm water and mix well.
• Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the soapy water and wring out the excess liquid.
• Wipe the appliance gently, following the direction of the steel’s grain.
• Dampen a separate cloth with plain water and wipe away any soap residue.
• Use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the surface and buff it to a shine.

This method is great if you need an instant fix. It should be a part of regular kitchen cleaning when you have to remove light grease or fingerprints without harsh chemicals.

4. Use Vinegar for a Natural Clean

Many people swear by the simple combination of vinegar and olive oil to give their stainless steel appliances a natural finish. You can even use vinegar with water if you want. The steps to do it are:

• Fill a spray bottle with equal parts of vinegar and water. Use 3 parts vinegar and 1 part olive oil if you choose the first option.
• Lightly spray the solution onto the stainless steel surface.
• Wipe the appliance using a microfiber cloth, following the direction of the grain to avoid streaks.
• For stubborn spots, apply a bit more vinegar and gently scrub with the cloth.
• Finish by drying the surface with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and leave a streak-free shine.

Vinegar is an affordable and non-toxic cleaning agent. This makes it a go-to solution for many people looking for a gentle yet powerful cleaner.

5. Apply Stainless Steel Cleaner (Optional)

Stainless steel cleaners are another good option to keep your appliances in their prime. Don’t fall for the marketing claims until a cleaner has the following features:

• Non-abrasive formulas
• Streak-free finish
• Non-toxic and eco-friendly ingredients

Remember – you can always go for homemade cleaning solutions. However, purchasing cleaners with groceries once in a while isn’t a bad option either. Choose according to your cleaning requirements.

6. Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth

When cleaning stainless steel, always wipe with a microfiber cloth in the direction of the grain. Wiping with the grain helps prevent streaks and keeps the surface smooth and shiny. Stainless steel has a grain that runs in one direction, so wiping with it picks up dirt better. Avoid circular motions, as they can leave streaks that are harder to clean.

Tips for Maintaining a Streak-Free Finish

A few tips that could help the steel appliances to maintain a smooth finish are:

• Always wipe with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
• Wipe in the direction of the grain for a smooth, polished look.
• Buff with a small amount of olive or mineral oil to add shine and protect from streaks.
• Avoid cleaners with ammonia or bleach to prevent streaks and damage.
• Dry the surface immediately to prevent water spots.
• Clean regularly to prevent grime buildup that can cause streaking.

These tips could turn into your habits if you adhere to them every time you clean.

Insider’s Insight

It takes just a few steps to return your stainless steel appliances to their sparkling state. The right cleaning routine and the use of proper products could help your appliances stay streak-free for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best thing to clean stainless steel appliances?

Vinegar, dish soap, and store-bought steel cleaners are some of the best cleaning products for steel appliances.

2. How to clean stainless steel appliances without streaks?

To avoid streaks on stainless steel, use a microfiber cloth and wipe along the steel grain. Clean with a simple mix of vinegar and water, then dry and buff the surface immediately. Avoid harsh chemicals, and always choose a soft, gentle cloth.

3. How do you make stainless steel look new again?

Clean it with vinegar and water to remove grime. You can also use ready-made cleaners or DIY hacks to return your steel appliance to its original finish. Then, buff the surface with a small amount of olive oil to restore its shine and protect it from future marks.