Monday, January 9, 2012

Cleaning Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel appliances look great, and have become a very popular choice. Cleaning the Stainless appliances is far less popular. Many people struggle to clean their Stainless, and have tried every trick in the book, and every “Stainless Steel Cleaner” on the market. Unfortunately Stainless steel can be difficult to clean, and some products that seem to clean it great can damage it over time.

Stainless Steel is an alloy of Iron and Chromium, it gets its “stainless” quality from an oxide coating on the surface. The coating on the surface develops during manufacturing, from the Chromium reacting with oxygen in the air. This process continues throughout the steel’s life, but the coating can be damaged by things such as dirt, grease, and some cleaners like Windex.

People have reported using cleaners like Pledge and Windex with no problems, while others have said that over time it has an effect on the finish of the Stainless. Below are some basic tips that work, without harming the Stainless.

1. Stainless Steel should be washed regularly.
2. Stainless should also be treated or polished regularly.
3. The safest, easiest way to clean stainless is using a warm, wet microfiber towel, wiping down the whole sheet of stainless at the same time, wiping with the grain of the metal and drying with another dry microfiber towel. A small amount of mild dish detergent can be added to the water to help remove grease, dirt or other grime.
4. A dab of olive oil on a clean cloth can be used to remove streaks
5. Ammonia can be used to remove fingerprints, or to polish.
6. Undiluted Vinegar can also be used to polish.
7. Stainless cleaners or polishes can help to protect the stainless and should be applied according to the individual product.
8. Always make sure to put another towel down to protect your floor.
9. Always try to rub with the grain of the metal, and use microfiber cloths or towels.

We have also compiled a list of warnings regarding cleaning Stainless Steel.

1. Abrasive cleaners or cleaning cloths can leave permanent scratches on Stainless Steel
2. Cleaners that aren’t specifically made for Stainless Steel can damage the oxide coating.
3. Chlorine is very damaging to Stainless, Never use bleach to clean.
4. When spraying or washing the stainless there is always the possibility of getting whatever you are using on the floor below the appliance, so we suggest always placing a towel over the floor.

It is important to keep in mind that all Stainless Steels can be different, and these are just suggestions. They may work for some people and not work for others. Remember that Stainless should be cleaned regularly because dirt and grease can cause damage or even stains and it could be beneficial to use Stainless cleaners or polish to keep the Stainless in good shape. Once you find something that works for you, stick with it.

If you have any methods that you think work well, or try these and like something tell us about it, post on our wall on Facebook, or mention us (@OrtegasApplianc) on Twitter.

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3 comments:

  1. I agree with these tips, Manny! Indeed, we should regularly clean and maintain our stainless steel utensils, as the alloy can become dull, scruffy, and rustic when left unkempt. These easy tips are the easiest and surest way to guarantee the products’ long life.

    - Carl Patten

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