Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 3: Brush with vinegar
• Necessities
• Tips
• Warnings

Stainless steel is prone to tarnish and water marks, so polish your stainless steel items regularly to bring them back to shine. You can polish the stainless steel surface with water, non-toxic cleaners such as vinegar and olive oil or with a special steel cleaner. Proper polishing of stainless steel will thoroughly clean the appliance or tool and prevent further scratches. Choose the method that works best for the item and start brushing your stainless steel item.

To step

Method 1 of 3: Brush with vinegar

1. Choose a vinegar type. Certain types of vinegar may work better than others. White vinegar and apple cider vinegar have a similar effect on stainless steel, but apple cider vinegar leaves a more pleasant scent. Use what you have at home. Cleaning vinegar is best for removing stubborn stains because it is more acidic. If you have a lot of deposits on your household appliance or tool, buy cleaning vinegar.
2. Look in which direction the grain runs. Stainless steel, like wood, has a grain that runs vertically or horizontally. By taking the sample in the direction of the grain, you can get to the small grooves that can trap dust and dirt.
3. Choose steel cleaning without wax. Waxy polishes leave a thin film, which can cause the stainless steel to dull over time. For the best result, choose a polish without wax and with an abrasive effect.
   • Stainless steel polishes can be found on the cleaning product shelves at most grocery stores. Ask an employee for help if you cannot find the polishes.
4. Opt for an oil-based or water-based cleaner. You can't remove smudges and fingerprints from stainless steel with a water-based cleaner. To polish the steel as well as possible, use an oil-based cleaner. However, water-based cleaners are better for the environment, usually less flammable and less toxic. Decide which things are more important to you.
5. Find a well-ventilated area to polish your item. Some specialty cleaners give off fumes that are dangerous to inhale in confined spaces. Brush your stainless steel item near a window or outside to avoid light-headedness. Open doors and windows before cleaning and never use special cleaners in enclosed areas.
   • If you get light-headed, nauseous, or feel sick, leave the room immediately and call your doctor. If possible, keep the product packaging with you to provide information to the doctor.
6. Take the object in the direction of the grain. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the appliance. After collection you can use the device or object again. Clean stainless steel as part of your regular daily cleaning routine (or after use) to prevent dirt build-up until you brush again.

Necessities

• Cleaning vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• Water
• Microfiber cloth
• Kitchen paper sheets (optional)
• Spray bottle
• Olive oil
• Cleaner without wax
• Gloves

Tips

• Do not use very hard water to clean stainless steel, as hard water can leave stains.
• Use a microfiber cloth for cleaning to avoid leaving streaks on the steel.
• Do not use steel wool to polish stainless steel. Steel wool has an abrasive effect on metal and can leave scratches.

Warnings

• Not all specialty cleaners are safe to use on kitchen appliances. Check the packaging to see if a cleaner is non-toxic and read all warnings on the back.
• Do not use all-purpose metal cleaners that contain chlorine or bleach, as these substances can damage stainless steel.
• Never mix bleach with vinegar, as this can produce toxic chlorine gas.