Stainless steel turns up in more and more homes. Sometimes it is only the casing of an appliance – a dishwasher or a fridge – and sometimes it is something used every day, like cutlery or mixing bowls. Stainless steel is exceptionally durable and long-lived, but it still needs looking after. So what is the best way to clean it?
What is stainless steel?
Stainless steel is a group of steels that resist corrosion from weather, alkaline solutions and dilute acids. The material was only invented at the beginning of the last century, yet it quickly gained worldwide popularity and is now used across many branches of industry. Stainless steel products are not only parts of industrial installations – you will also find them at home and in public spaces.
Stainless steel is used for lift shafts, street furniture, cutlery, bowls, appliance casings, sinks, domestic fittings and cookware. Dirt, scorch marks and scratches do not take away its exceptional properties, but they do change how it looks.
What should you clean stainless steel with?
The first rule of keeping steel surfaces clean is to avoid letting them get badly soiled or damaged in the first place – above all, keep an eye on pans left on a gas hob. Burnt-on steel is very hard to clean, especially where the surface is also greasy. Use soft, gentle cloths: that way you avoid scratching. The same goes for detergents – stay away from scouring powders. Washing-up liquid, a mild detergent or a dedicated stainless steel cleaner will all do the job.
How to clean stainless steel
If you want your kitchen equipment to keep looking good, it pays to take care of it. Besides mild detergents and soft cloths, wash it regularly. There are plenty of products on the market that bring back the shine, remove unsightly fingerprints and help with scorch marks and heavier soiling. Remember that although stainless steel stays functional for many years, keeping it looking good takes proper care. The good news is that most marks come off with household remedies.
Household remedies for cleaning stainless steel
Household methods are both effective and kind to the environment. Vinegar, citric acid and baking soda are all you need. For ordinary deposits and limescale, water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio is enough. Fingerprints come off beautifully with a cloth dampened with spirit. For tougher marks, make a paste of baking soda, water and vinegar – it helps particularly with scorching. Always wipe the surface dry afterwards, with a paper towel for instance. Olive oil works very well for polishing stainless steel, but go easy on it so you do not leave the surface greasy.
