How to Clean Stainless Steel Without Chemicals

Durable and shiny, it is the ideal material for kitchens and bathrooms, but do you know how to clean stainless steel? "Stainless" was originally used to describe steel's ability to withstand heat and humidity without corroding, but, as anyone who's owned stainless steel kitchen appliances knows, the term is somewhat of a misnomer. While stainless steel is tough, it's also prone to fingerprints, streaks, and water stains.

It's important to learn how to clean stainless steel with the appropriate cleaners because harsh abrasives can scratch and contribute to rust. Fortunately, you can go the natural route and mix an effective stainless steel cleaner with ingredients you probably already have. Follow these DIY chemical-free tips to get your stainless steel cookware and appliances clean and shiny—so they live up to their name.

How Often to Clean Stainless Steel

The best time to clean your stainless steel is when it's dirty. This seems far too simplistic but, as you know, kitchen use varies widely from one family to another.

The goal is to restore your appliances' original appearance, so an appropriate cleaning schedule may be as infrequent as one to four times a year. In a heavily used kitchen or where hygienic concerns are paramount, daily cleaning may be required for certain items.

Considerations Before You Get Started

Before you clean a stainless steel appliance, it's smart to check the manufacturer's recommendations. There are numerous grades of stainless steel out there, some more durable than others. Some appliances are treated with a clear-coat finish, which can be stripped by certain cleaning products. Lost the manual? Don't worry, you may be able to find it online.

If you're not the DIY type, there are plenty of effective stainless steel cleaners on the market. A stovetop cleaner such as TriNova is also effective in cleaning grimy stainless steel range hoods as well as oven and dishwasher doors.

More great options for cleaning stainless steel are a grill cleaner or even a silver polish like Wright's. Whatever you use, be sure to read the label and carefully follow instructions.

What You'll Need:

• Soft cloth
• Small to medium bowl
• Mild dish soap
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Olive oil (optional)

How to Clean Stainless Steel Without Chemicals

There is more than one way to clean stainless steel. Go with the method that matches your stainless steel item, its condition, and what you have on hand.

A Damp Cloth

In most cases, wiping down your stainless steel with a clean cloth or microfiber towel dipped in hot water does the trick.

• Just like wood, stainless steel has a grain. Determine the striations on the surface of your appliance and wipe in that direction, beginning at the top and working your way down.
• Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.

Steam-clean

Because stainless steel scratches easily, avoid using a brush attachment or any stiff cleaning tools. Instead, try using a steamer.

• To sterilize and disinfect stainless steel, use a steam cleaner with a nozzle attachment
• Wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Vinegar

For stubborn grease spots or water scaling, wetting a soft cloth with a diluted vinegar solution can do the trick.

• Mix a solution of 2 parts water to 1 part vinegar.
• Wipe the entire surface from top to bottom, and never let vinegar sit on the surface. Follow with a complete rinse and dry.

How to Keep Your Stainless Steel Clean Longer

Proper upkeep is an essential part of making the most of your kitchen's stainless steel appliances and equipment. Failure to maintain your investment can lead to unsightly staining, discoloration, or even long-term damage.

Fortunately, the upkeep of stainless is simple. By developing routine maintenance procedures, you can extend the life of your kitchen's stainless steel items and keep them looking like new. 

Add some shine

To make the surface of your stainless steel appliance shiny and protect it from fingerprints, add a small drop of olive oil to a cloth and buff it on the surface, working in the direction of the grain, and then wipe away excess with a dry cloth. The surface shouldn't feel oily, but it'll look shiny and fingerprint-free for longer.

Use a polishing paste

Commercially sold pastes are another way to keep stainless steel appliances sparkling. They create a microscopic wax layer on the surface that lasts up to several months, making the surface easy to clean. Polishing paste is for decorative surfaces only, and is not appropriate for cookware.

Avoid abrasive tools and cleaners

Be sure to avoid abrasives like sandpaper, steel wool, metal brushes, and harsh abrasive cleaners. Soft abrasives may work in specific scenarios, but first spot-test in an inconspicuous place. When using abrasives, wipe in the same direction as the grain or polish on the surface of the steel to ensure an optimal appearance.

How to Remove Stains on Stainless Steel with Baking Soda

Typically, you need to pay a bit more attention to burnt or caked-on messes on stainless steel sinks, pots and pans, or countertops. This method also works as a way to clean stainless steel compost bins.

Step 1. Make a Paste

To start, make a soft paste of baking soda and water and then apply it to the stain, allowing it to sit for about 20 minutes.

Step 2. Mix a solution

In a small to medium-sized bowl, mix a solution of water and dish soap.

Step 3. Scrub with a Soft Cloth

Next, scrub the area with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of water and dish soap, working parallel to the grain to avoid scratches.

Step 4. Rinse and Dry

Be sure to fully rinse the area with warm water, wiping away any residue left from the soap and water solution. Dry well with a clean cloth to avoid streaking.