If you own these popular and stylish appliances, then you know full well they’re hardly ever smudge-free. However, with the right cleaning methods and regular maintenance, you can keep them looking their best.
Here are some easy and effective cleaning tricks to help you with that and keep your precious stainless steel spotless and looking its best at all times.
DIY vs Store-Bought Cleaners
You probably know this, but the secret to keeping steel gleaming is using the right cleaner.
However, did you know that you can easily do so with a cheap homemade solution? Yes, it’s as simple as mixing equal parts white vinegar and water, popping the mixture into a spray bottle, and you’re set.
That’s because vinegar is about 5% acetic acid, which is just enough to cut through grease and pesky bacteria without harming your finish. Plus, it won’t leave a sticky residue behind, so that’s already a 3-in-1 effect.
You might think bleach might also be a good idea–but you couldn’t be more wrong here. That’s the surest way to dull your stainless steel finish. Permanently. So, avoid that at all costs.
If DIY cleaners aren’t quite your cup of tea, you might want to check out local favourites like Tesco or Sainsbury’s. They stock some proper good options such as Astonish’s Stainless Steel Cleaner or Ecover Spray.
Using a proper cleaner is only part of the equation, though.
Application Technique
You do not only want the right cleaner, but also using the right tools–and this is where a soft microfiber cloth comes into the picture. They’ll keep your appliances gleaming without much fuss, which makes them a really smart choice.
Also, when you’re wiping down your fridge or your stove, make sure to also go with the grain of the metal. It’s like brushing a cat’s fur the right way—much smoother and avoids any unnecessary scratches.
You might notice some marks here and there, but don’t worry. A gentle touch is all you need to keep the finish intact. Just fold that cloth to reveal a clean side whenever you need it. It speeds up the cleaning and keeps everything looking fresh.
Now, paper towels might also seem handy, but they leave behind pesky little bits or, worse, they can scratch your precious steel appliances. So, it’s best to ditch them in favour of microfiber cloths altogether.
Cleaning better means doing so smartly, and that’s the way to handle and protect your stainless steel appliances.
Why Drying Them Immediately is So Important
To keep your stainless steel appliances looking great, make sure to dry them right away so you don’t get those annoying water spots or streaks.
Grab a clean, dry microfiber cloth for the job—it’s perfect for soaking up water without leaving scratches. Once again, wipe in the direction of the grain for that nice polished look. It’s a good idea to keep a cloth handy for quick drying after any spills.
This little habit not only keeps your appliances looking sharp but also helps them last longer.
Create a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Keeping your stainless steel appliances gleaming is a breeze with a regular wipe-down. Just a simple clean once or twice a week can keep all those pesky fingerprints and marks at bay.
To make sure you don’t miss a beat, just set a reminder on your phone. Or, you could stick a Post-it on the fridge to keep it top of mind amidst the daily hustle and bustle.
It’d be even better if you could find a way to involve the whole family and also make it fun. Sharing the load of cleaning responsibilities is one sure way to teach young kids about responsibility and adulthood.
Let the kids also pick a “clean-up song”, and you’ll make it much more fun for them. After you’re done, maybe treat them with something they like, so you respect their effort but also reinforce the cleaning ritual.
Apply a Protective Polish or Oil
Just use a bit of polish or mineral oil, and you’ll see how that will reduce fingerprints and smudges. It will also make cleaning much easier as a result.
Just grab a soft cloth, dab a little mineral oil or polish on it, and gently rub it along the grain of your appliance.
You can snag mineral oil at any pharmacy and find stainless steel polishes at DIY stores. Try giving them a quick polish every two weeks or so to keep them looking top-notch. Keeping them spiffy has never been so easy!
Conclusion
So, that’s how to clean stainless steel appliances the right way. Use these tips, and they’ll be shiny and gleaming, making your kitchen look and feel truly amazing.
It’s how you’ll also make them last you much longer and avoid those nasty marks and even worse–scratches. Remember to do it regularly, and you’ll never regret it.
Happy cleaning!