Unlike other metals, stainless steel brings an elegant and shiny look to every kitchen and bathroom. Protecting and preventing stainless steel from becoming dull often requires dedication and repetitive maintenance. In order to keep the shine and prevent it from becoming dull, hiring home cleaning services in Wasilla, AK is your safest bet. After all, who wouldn’t want their stainless steel polished and sparkly at all times?
However, you may notice that metal surfaces in your home are not as shiny as they used to be. If you’re taking care of your stainless steel by yourself, you’re probably doing something wrong, like using the wrong product. We have compiled a list of all items that are harmful to the stainless steel surfaces, so keep reading.
What should you not use on stainless steel?
Since it’s one of the sturdiest metals, people usually think that nothing can harm it, so they use whatever they have on hand. And while the solution for cleaning stainless steel is pretty straightforward and DIY-friendly, these four items should be avoided:
1. Bleach
Perfect for disinfecting and whitening, terrible for shiny metals. Any form of chlorine or bleach can corrode the metal and make it degrade faster. When you think you’re doing your stainless steel a favor by disinfecting it with bleach, you’re actually destroying it.
2. Steel wool
Steel on steel can’t hurt, right? It’s only okay if your stainless steel surface has a visible grain. Even then, make sure to use steel wool in the direction of the grain. However, on polished metal, steel wool will bring visible scratches. This is the most common stainless steel cleaning mistake.
3. Oven cleaner
Since the ovens are made from metal, people usually use oven cleaners for their stainless steel. But this product contains certain chemicals that strip off the protective layer on steel surfaces, leaving it prone to corroding. Limit the oven cleaner only to your oven to avoid any further damage.
4. Tap water
Has this ever happened to you? You washed the dishes and decided to wipe the sink afterward with a bit of water on a damp cloth. Ten minutes later, there are white stains all over the sink!
This happens because tap water contains plenty of minerals that leave a white residue when dried. It’s not difficult to remove these stains, but to prevent them, it’s better to use distilled or filtered water if you decide to clean your stainless steel with it.
What is safe to use on stainless steel?
Now that you know what to avoid when cleaning your steel surfaces, it’s good to know what products and ingredients don’t harm the metal, but do a good job at removing stains and grime.
- White vinegar is acidic enough to remove even the most stubborn stains without damaging your stainless steel.
- Olive oil is a perfect product for leaving your steel surface shiny. Use it as a protective coating after cleaning.
- Dish soap. The simplest solutions are often the best. If your cutlery shines after washing it with dish soap, your stainless steel appliances will be sparkly too!
Can scratches on stainless steel be removed?
Accidental scratches on stainless steel surfaces are common, especially in kitchens where heavy-duty cleaning tools and utensils are frequently used. Fortunately, many scratches can be repaired at home with the right techniques.
For light scratches, using a stainless steel cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth can help buff out the damage without causing further harm. Always rub in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid introducing new scratches. For deeper marks, consider using a stainless steel scratch repair kit or fine-grit sandpaper. Start with gentle pressure and gradually increase it, keeping your movements consistent with the grain. If you’re hesitant to tackle the repairs yourself or the scratches are particularly noticeable, consulting home cleaning services in Wasilla, AK, can ensure the surface is restored without risking additional damage.
How often should you clean stainless steel surfaces?
While stainless steel is prized for its durability and sleek appearance, regular maintenance is key to keeping it looking its best. For daily upkeep, a simple wipe-down with a damp microfiber cloth is sufficient to remove fingerprints, smudges, and light dirt. This quick step prevents grime from building up over time. For deeper cleaning, aim to clean your stainless steel appliances and surfaces once a week with a mild solution of dish soap or diluted white vinegar. This helps tackle tougher stains, grease, and water spots.
In areas of heavy use, such as kitchen sinks or stovetops, apply a protective layer of olive oil or a specialized stainless steel polish once a month to keep the surface shining while providing an added barrier against scratches and corrosion. A consistent cleaning routine not only maintains the aesthetic appeal but also extends the life of your stainless steel.
Where can I find professional home cleaning services in Wasilla, AK?
Cleaning your stainless steel may seem like a lot of work sometimes, and that’s alright. Nobody’s perfect, but that doesn’t mean that your metal surfaces can’t be! This is why White Lilac Cleaning is at your disposal for all types of cleaning services. The cleaners we work with have special EPA-approved cleaning products that can make any surface shine!
Don’t waste your time and energy on tedious scrubbing and wiping. Give us a call, and we’ll send someone over right away. Take a relaxing day off with your loved ones near Wasilla Lake and leave the cleaning to us! Contact us today!