The Easiest Way to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Stainless steel appliances are popular in the kitchen because of the sleek, modern look they bring to the space. However, they generally show spills and fingerprints more easily than some of their glossier counterparts—which is why maintaining a cleaning routine is a must. To help, we're sharing our best stainless steel cleaning tips that will keep everything from your dishwasher to your refrigerator sparkling.

Before You Begin

Before you use any type of cleaning product on your appliances, be sure to consult the specific item's manual for a safe ingredient list. "You don't want to ruin your appliance, nor do you want to apply anything to a gas stove or oven that is flammable," says Rochelle Wilkinson of Dirt Detectives Cleaning Services. Though it may not cause a fire when applied, residue left near the open flame can lead to trouble once you turn up the heat.

Materials to Avoid

Never use anything abrasive when cleaning stainless steel appliances, including scouring powder and scrubbing brushes or sponges, says Sabrina Fierman, owner of New York’s Little Elves. You should also avoid using oil-based cleaners. "Oils in stainless steel cleaning products or do-it-yourself solutions will initially leave the surface looking shiny and pretty, but with time, oil attracts dust and shows every fingerprint," says Fierman. Glass cleaners and products containing alcohol should also be avoided, as these can leave streaks and discolor the appliance.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning stainless steel.

• Dish soap
• Water
• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Small bowl
• Microfiber towels

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Dish soap is an effective way to cut through built-up grease on stainless steel appliances. To wipe away the cleaning solution, make sure you use a microfiber cloth, as general-purpose towels can potentially scratch stainless steel, says Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds.

1. Fill a spray bottle with 1 ½ cups of water; add ½ teaspoon of dish soap and shake well.
2. Spray the appliance with the cleaning solution.
3. Working with the grain and moving in an “S” pattern, wipe the appliance with a flatweave microfiber towel.
   
4. Use a damp microfiber towel to wipe away remaining residue.
5. Dry thoroughly with a clean microfiber towel to avoid leaving water stains behind.

How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Stainless Steel Appliances

If you notice hard water spots on your stainless steel appliances, vinegar is an effective way to remove them, says Parnell.

1. Soak a soft cloth in vinegar and apply it directly to the stained area.
2. Let the cloth sit for five to 10 minutes.
3. Fill a spray bottle with 1 ½ cups of water; add ½ teaspoon of dish soap and shake well.
4. Spray the appliance with the cleaning solution.
5. Working with the grain and moving in an “S” pattern, wipe the appliance with a flatweave microfiber towel.
   
6. Use a damp microfiber towel to wipe away remaining residue.
7. Dry thoroughly with a clean microfiber towel to avoid leaving water stains behind.

How to Remove Rust Stains From Stainless Steel Appliances

To remove rust stains from stainless steel, make a homemade paste with baking powder, says Parnell.

1. In a small bowl, combine baking soda and water until a paste forms.
2. Apply a small amount with your finger and very gently rub the stain.
3. Fill a spray bottle with 1 ½ cups of water; add ½ teaspoon of dish soap and shake well.
4. Spray the appliance with the cleaning solution.
5. Working with the grain and moving in an “S” pattern, wipe the appliance with a flatweave microfiber towel.
   
6. Use a damp microfiber towel to wipe away remaining residue.
7. Dry thoroughly with a clean microfiber towel to avoid leaving water stains behind.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances With a Steamer

If these products and methods don't work, try using steam, which works especially well on appliances that have built-up or hardened food particles, says Leanne Stapf—the Chief Operating Officer at The Cleaning Authority. Go over the appliance with a handheld steamer then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth, moving in an "S" pattern.