Keep your oven, dishwasher, microwave, and other stainless steel appliances gleaming.
Lauren is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com. blue toilet bowl cleaner
Stainless steel appliances are popular in the kitchen because of the sleek, modern look they bring to the space. However, they generally show spills and fingerprints more easily than some of their glossier counterparts—which is why maintaining a cleaning routine is a must. To help, we're sharing our best stainless steel cleaning tips that will keep everything from your dishwasher to your refrigerator sparkling.
Before you use any type of cleaning product on your appliances, be sure to consult the specific item's manual for a safe ingredient list. "You don't want to ruin your appliance, nor do you want to apply anything to a gas stove or oven that is flammable," says Rochelle Wilkinson of Dirt Detectives Cleaning Services. Though it may not cause a fire when applied, residue left near the open flame can lead to trouble once you turn up the heat.
Never use anything abrasive when cleaning stainless steel appliances, including scouring powder and scrubbing brushes or sponges, says Sabrina Fierman, owner of New York’s Little Elves. You should also avoid using oil-based cleaners. "Oils in stainless steel cleaning products or do-it-yourself solutions will initially leave the surface looking shiny and pretty, but with time, oil attracts dust and shows every fingerprint," says Fierman. Glass cleaners and products containing alcohol should also be avoided, as these can leave streaks and discolor the appliance.
Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning stainless steel.
Dish soap is an effective way to cut through built-up grease on stainless steel appliances. To wipe away the cleaning solution, make sure you use a microfiber cloth, as general-purpose towels can potentially scratch stainless steel, says Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds.
If you notice hard water spots on your stainless steel appliances, vinegar is an effective way to remove them, says Parnell.
To remove rust stains from stainless steel, make a homemade paste with baking powder, says Parnell.
natural laundry detergent If these products and methods don't work, try using steam, which works especially well on appliances that have built-up or hardened food particles, says Leanne Stapf—the Chief Operating Officer at The Cleaning Authority. Go over the appliance with a handheld steamer then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth, moving in an "S" pattern.