The sleek appearance of stainless steel appliances elevates any kitchen, imparting a sense of luxury. However, these surfaces are notoriously prone to fingerprints, scratches, and dirt, prompting many to avoid using them. The good news is that maintaining the shine of your stainless steel appliances doesn’t have to be a chore. I consulted several cleaning experts to uncover the most effective methods and products for cleaning stainless steel, as well as their personal favorites.
Recommended Products for Stainless Steel Care
The following cleaning products come highly recommended by experts or have garnered an average rating of four stars or higher from over 500 reviews on Amazon.
What we like: Easy to use and effectively removes oil stains without streaks.
Weiman’s stainless steel cleaning products are endorsed by Kadi Dulude, owner of Wizard of Homes, and Robin Murphy, a cleaning supervisor at Maid Brigade. Both experts confirm that Weiman’s cleaning wipes and sprays swiftly eliminate fingerprints and other grime. The bundle includes two wipes and a microfiber cloth designed to enhance shine and buff out any streaks.
Shalwa Evans, NBC Select’s senior editor, notes that she utilizes these wipes in her dishwasher, oven, and microwave at least once per month. She appreciates how they maintain a clean appearance for weeks, especially when used with a microfiber cloth.
What we like: Effectively removes buildup, has no strong scent, and is user-friendly.
In addition to wipes, Weiman offers stainless steel cleaning sprays that cater to various appliances, including refrigerators and dishwashers. These sprays leave a protective barrier that prevents the buildup of dirt and residue, ensuring long-lasting shine.
What we like: Effectively removes oil stains, is unscented, and multipurpose.
For daily cleaning tasks, Murphy recommends an eco-friendly dish soap, like Seventh Generation, for its plant-based ingredients and fragrance-free formulation. Such soaps contain gentle components that won’t damage the finish of stainless steel appliances over time and can be safely used for routine maintenance.
For tougher grease, Dawn’s Platinum Plus Powerwash Dish Spray excels. This versatile product effectively cleans stainless steel without leaving streaks and works well for both inner and outer surfaces of appliances. It dispenses in a foamy spray and offers a refillable option for eco-friendly cleaning.
Effective Cleaning Steps for Stainless Steel Appliances
Cleaning stainless steel appliances can be simplified into four easy steps. Gather a fresh microfiber cloth, a bowl of hot water, and your preferred dishwashing detergent. Mix a few drops of the detergent into the warm water. Dampen the cloth in the solution, wring it out gently, and wipe the appliance surface in the direction of the grain.
For a deeper clean, consider using Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner Wipes. Apply the wipe in the direction of the grain and follow with a dry microfiber cloth for a flawless finish.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel
Experts warn against using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals when cleaning stainless steel. Dulude and Murphy advise against bleach, steel wool, and scouring pads, as these can scratch and dull the surface over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use Dawn dish detergent on stainless steel? Yes, but experts suggest using it sparingly to avoid excess residue that can lead to streaking.
Can I use Windex on stainless steel? While it can be used occasionally, Windex is not recommended for regular stainless steel care due to the ammonia content, which can dull the finish.
What are common mistakes in cleaning stainless steel? Using too much product, employing overly abrasive cleaners, and cleaning against the grain can all lead to scratches and a dull appearance.
Expert Insights
At NBC Select, we collaborate with experts to ensure our recommendations are credible and based on real-world experience. Kadi Dulude and Robin Murphy offer invaluable insights into optimal cleaning techniques and product choices.
Why Trust NBC Select?
As the Commerce Editor for NBC Select, I specialize in product reviews and recommendations. For this article, I drew on the expertise of multiple cleaning professionals to provide well-rounded advice on maintaining stainless steel appliances. Our commitment to reliability extends to various other topics, from cleaning products to technology reviews.
