How often should you clean stainless steel appliances?

Author: Conner Heathcote  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

The frequency of cleaning your stainless steel depends on its use and exposure to elements. In a busy kitchen with high traffic, daily cleaning might be necessary to prevent the buildup of fingerprints, grease, and other contaminants. For less frequently used items, a weekly cleaning routine should suffice.

Is Dawn dish soap safe on stainless steel?

I don't love the look of grimy fingerprints on stainless steel. But, such is life with children and stainless steel appliances. Dawn dish soap makes a good stainless steel cleaner. Simply add a squirt of Dawn to warm water and use a microfiber cloth to wipe (be sure to go with the grain of your steel) the appliances.

What is the best cleaner for stainless steel appliances?

Diluted vinegar with a little dish soap is my go to for stainless steel. Barkeepers friend for the tough stains (careful not to stub too hard or can cause scratches), however be sure to follow instructions and DO NOT let it sit long.

Can I use Windex to clean stainless steel appliances?

If all you're dealing with are those smudgy fingerprints, you can give your stainless steel appliances a quick touch-up using glass cleaner. Brands like Windex will do just fine, here. Once again, spray the solution onto your cleaning rag and apply it to the smudgy areas on your appliances using a circular motion.

What is not recommended to clean stainless steel?

As a general rule, however, you should avoid these tools and cleaners on stainless steel, as they may scratch the surface, stain or dull the finish: Harsh abrasives. Scouring powders. Steel wool.

The best Cleaner for Pots, Pans, Stainless Steel and Bathrooms 🧽

What ruins stainless steel?

Never use the following products on stainless steel surfaces:
  • Chloride cleaners.
  • Abrasive cleaners.
  • All-purpose cleaners.
  • Chloride bleach.

What not to use bar keepers friend on?

Don't Use Bar Keepers Friend on Non-Recommended Surfaces
  • Marble and other natural stones: BKF original powder can scratch and damage the polished surface.
  • Non-stick cookware: The coating can be worn away, compromising its effectiveness and safety.
  • Gold or silver-plated items: It can strip away the plating.

Can you use straight vinegar to clean stainless steel?

Vinegar is an excellent DIY stainless steel cleaner. You'll just need white vinegar, warm water and an empty spray bottle. Microfiber cloths are recommended as they don't leave lint behind, but you can use a paper towel too.

Can you use Clorox wipes to clean stainless steel appliances?

Using any cleaner containing bleach, such as Clorox wipes, should not be used on metal surfaces like stainless steel, as this could result in corrosion or rust.

What is the best glass cleaner for stainless steel?

Windex and Stainless Steel

On the other hand, some people recommend glass cleaners, such as Windex, for stainless steel because it gives a real shine, and you cannot tell if it is brand new or not.

How to make stainless steel appliances look new again?

Apply a bit of baking soda on the surface, then apply white vinegar (it can be in a spray bottle or a small amount dabbed on a kitchen towel). Gently wipe away the spot with a soft cloth or paper towel and rinse with warm water. Another insider secret for banishing buildup, according to Shimek, is to use club soda.

What is the best wash for stainless steel?

Bar Keepers Friend Cleanser, Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser, and Bar Keepers Friend MORE Spray+Foam are perfect for regularly cleaning stainless steel sinks and cookware. Each of these products is non-abrasive and won't harm the chrome oxide barrier when used properly.

Is Scrub Daddy safe on stainless steel?

Safe scrubbing on over a dozen different household surfaces including glass, non-stick coatings, granite, ceramic, wood and stainless steel. We've done the testing so you don't have to.

What is an everyday cleaner for stainless steel?

Add white vinegar to a clean spray bottle. Spray down your stainless steel appliance. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. Once clean, dip your cloth into a small amount of olive oil.

Does Dawn leave a residue?

It doesn't all wash off. In fact, it leaves toxic chemical residues behind on your dishes and glasses that pose significant health hazards over the long-term.

What detergent is good for cleaning stainless steel?

  • CIF Perfect Finish Stainless Steel Cleaner| Removes Tough Dirt 435ml (pack of 1) ...
  • JOFF Tap and Shower Cleaner, 250ml. ...
  • 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish, Cleaning Spray Foam, Ready to Use Cleaner for Metal Surfaces, Remove Water Stain Mark & Fingerprints, Resists Streaking, Non Greasy & Pleasant Fragrance -283gm.

Can I use Windex on my stainless steel appliances?

Yes, you can use Windex on your stainless steel appliances. However, it should be used sparingly and wiped off thoroughly to prevent streaking and potential damage to the protective surface.

What should you not use to clean stainless steel appliances?

Be careful not to use any of the following on your stainless steel appliances as they can scratch or damage the finish: products containing bleach, abrasive or grainy cleaners, glass cleaner, oven cleaner, ammonia or abrasive cloths or pads like steel wool.

How do you keep smudges off stainless steel appliances?

Olive oil

This kitchen staple not only cleans stainless steel, but it also helps protect it from water spots and fingerprint smudges. Apply a few drops to a dry microfiber cloth, then polish the steel by rubbing in the same direction as the grain.

Is olive oil good for stainless steel?

While a professional polish may be necessary for tougher jobs, you can get your stainless steel looking great with something you have right in your pantry: olive oil! From your stainless pots and pans to the door of your refrigerator, a few drops of oil will get the job done.

What should not be cleaned with vinegar?

But eight places you should never use vinegar include:
  1. Stone Countertops. Surfaces that often get ruined by vinegar are stone countertops, like marble and travertine. ...
  2. Dishwashers/Washing Machines. ...
  3. Clothes Iron. ...
  4. Tile Grout. ...
  5. Knives. ...
  6. Small Appliances. ...
  7. Hardwood Floors. ...
  8. Electronic Screens.

How long to leave a faucet in vinegar?

"If your fixture can withstand the acidity of vinegar, it is the best option for cleaning your faucet head," she says. Vinegar should not be left on chrome for more than two hours, and this ingredient should not be left on nickel, gold, or brass for over 30 minutes, Parnell says.

Is Bar Keepers Friend just baking soda?

Is Bar Keepers Friend just baking soda? Despite its similar appearance, Bar Keepers Friend is not the same as baking soda. Bark Keepers Friend is made from oxalic acid, a powerful cleaning chemical that can break down hard-to-move marks, grime, and dirt with ease.

Should you wear gloves when using Bar Keepers Friend?

BKF is not harmful to the skin during casual use. However, gloves are recommended for prolonged use or sensitive skin. The oxalic acid in BKF is mild, but it may irritate sensitive skin and will sting in any open wound (similar to lemon juice on a cut).

What are the side effects of Bar Keepers Friend?

Ingestion: May cause irritation of the mouth and intestinal tract. Skin corrosion/irritation: Not a skin corrosive. Eye damage/ irritation: Causes eye damage. Respiratory irritation: Dust may be irritating to the respiratory system.

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