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How to care for stainless steel appliances

10 Oct 2017

Stainless steel is an attractive finish, popular for its sleek looks and non-porous surface. To keep it looking presentable, you’ll need to establish a regular cleaning routine.

To avoid tarnishing the finish and corrosion resistant properties, it’s important to care for your stainless steel products and appliances the right way.

Safety first

To avoid tarnishing the finish and corrosion resistant properties, it’s important to care for your stainless steel products and appliances the right way. 

Don’t be tempted to use abrasive cleaners, steel scrubbing pads or wire brushes that will damage the finish. You also want to avoid eagerly rubbing the surface in different directions.

What you want to do is take a closer look at the surface. You’ll notice that it has a brushed or polished grain, which you should follow as you clean.

You can use a Stainless Steel Cleaner to remove hard water stains and food spills.

Countertops

Stainless steel countertops tend to take a lot of beating. To care for these, avoid harsh chemicals. Use a gentle dishwashing liquid and warm water to mop up spills and wipe down the surface.

Hoods and hobs

Stove hoods and hobs need a weekly cleaning to prevent a build-up of grime and dirt. Spritz some rubbing alcohol onto your hood and then use a soft cloth to wipe away the muck. Just remember not to use the alcohol near an open flame.

If you’re dealing with burn marks, try this DIY recipe. Mix a cup of baking soda, with a quarter cup of lemon juice, and three tablespoons of Borax. Apply this paste onto the affected area, then use a cloth to work it into the stain.

If you’re dealing with burn marks, try this DIY recipe. Mix a cup of baking soda, with a quarter cup of lemon juice, and three tablespoons of Borax. Apply this paste onto the affected area, then use a cloth to work it into the stain. You can then rinse it off using carbonated water.

Fight corrosion

Stainless steel, like most metals, will rust, but not as quickly as other metals. Fortunately, there’s a way to treat oxidation.

To treat the rust, combine pumice powder with water to create a paste that you can use. Follow the grain on the hood to avoid damaging the finish.

Keep the shine

Products that are designed to clean ornamental stainless steel usually contain silicone oil, which helps removes smudges. It does not, however, prevent fingerprints.

A polishing paste can keep stainless steel gleaming for several months. This is because most are resistant to detergents but can be removed using alcohol and a soft cloth.

It’s important to remember that pastes and spray cleaners that are used on decorative stainless steel like backsplashes and fridge doors should not be used on pots or countertops. – Katlego Sekano

About the Author
Katlego Sekano

Katlego Sekano

Journalist at Property24.com

Journalist at Property24.com

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