How To Clean Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a popular material in homes and commercial spaces thanks to its modern appearance, durability, and resistance to rust. You’ll find it everywhere — kitchen appliances, sinks, benchtops, splashbacks, handrails, and outdoor fixtures. While it’s known for being low maintenance, stainless steel still requires the right cleaning methods to keep it looking its best.

Clean it incorrectly and you can end up with streaks, scratches, dull patches, or permanent marks. In this guide, we’ll explain how to clean stainless steel properly, what products to use, what to avoid, and how to maintain that clean, polished finish long term.

What Is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy made primarily from iron, chromium, and small amounts of other metals. The chromium forms a protective layer on the surface, which helps prevent rust and corrosion. However, this protective layer can be damaged by harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, and incorrect cleaning techniques.

That’s why knowing how to clean stainless steel the right way is essential.

Why Stainless Steel Needs Proper Cleaning

Even though stainless steel is tough, it still shows:

• Fingerprints
• Smudges and streaks
• Water spots
• Grease and oil marks
• Dust and grime

In kitchens and bathrooms especially, improper cleaning can leave surfaces looking worse rather than better. Using the wrong products can also break down the protective coating, making the steel more prone to corrosion over time.

Understanding the Grain of Stainless Steel

Before you start cleaning, it’s important to understand one key concept: the grain.

Most stainless steel surfaces have a visible grain — faint lines running either horizontally or vertically. Always clean in the direction of the grain, not against it.

Cleaning with the grain:

• Reduces streaking
• Prevents scratching
• Produces a more polished finish

Cleaning against the grain can trap dirt in grooves and create swirl marks.

Basic Supplies for Cleaning Stainless Steel

You don’t need expensive or specialised products. In most cases, simple household items work best.

Common supplies include:

• Microfibre cloths
• Warm water
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Olive oil or mineral oil

Avoid rough sponges, steel wool, or abrasive pads.

How To Clean Stainless Steel (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Wipe Away Loose Dirt and Dust

Start by removing loose dust and debris using a dry or slightly damp microfibre cloth. This prevents dirt from scratching the surface during deeper cleaning.

Always wipe in the direction of the grain.

Step 2: Clean With Warm Water and Mild Detergent

For everyday cleaning, warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid are often enough.

How to do it:

1. Mix warm water with a small amount of detergent
2. Dip a soft cloth into the solution
3. Wipe the stainless steel following the grain
4. Focus on greasy or smudged areas

This method works well for appliances, splashbacks, and sinks.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Soap residue can cause streaking. After cleaning, wipe the surface again with a clean cloth dampened with plain water to remove any leftover detergent.

Step 4: Dry Immediately

Drying is crucial. Leaving water to air-dry can cause water spots and streaks.

Use a clean, dry microfibre cloth and wipe along the grain to finish.

How To Remove Fingerprints From Stainless Steel

Fingerprints are one of the most common complaints with stainless steel appliances.

To remove them:

• Use warm water and a microfibre cloth for light marks
• For stubborn prints, lightly dampen the cloth with white vinegar
• Wipe along the grain
• Dry thoroughly

For high-touch surfaces like fridges and dishwashers, regular quick wipe-downs prevent build-up.

How To Clean Stainless Steel With Vinegar

White vinegar is excellent for cutting through grease and removing streaks.

Vinegar Method:

1. Spray a small amount of white vinegar onto the surface or cloth
2. Wipe in the direction of the grain
3. Buff dry with a clean cloth

Vinegar is particularly effective on:

• Stainless steel fridges
• Rangehoods
• Benchtops

Avoid leaving vinegar sitting on the surface for long periods.

How To Remove Stubborn Stains and Grime

For tougher stains, such as baked-on grease or water marks, a slightly stronger approach is needed.

Baking Soda Paste Method:

1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste
2. Apply gently to the stained area
3. Rub softly with a cloth following the grain
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Dry completely

This method is gentle yet effective when used carefully.

How To Polish Stainless Steel

Polishing stainless steel helps restore shine and reduce future fingerprints.

Oil Polishing Method:

• Apply a tiny amount of olive oil or mineral oil to a soft cloth
• Wipe lightly along the grain
• Buff with a clean cloth

Only a small amount is needed. Overuse can attract dust and leave a greasy finish.

Polishing works well on:

• Appliances
• Splashbacks
• Decorative stainless steel features

How To Clean Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks see heavy use and often show water spots and scratches.

Sink Cleaning Steps:

1. Rinse away food debris
2. Clean with warm water and mild detergent
3. For stains, use baking soda and a soft cloth
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Dry with a cloth to prevent water marks

Regular drying after use makes a big difference in appearance.

How To Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Appliances like fridges, ovens, and dishwashers require careful cleaning to avoid streaks.

Tips:

• Always follow the grain
• Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto control panels
• Use minimal moisture around electrical components
• Dry immediately after cleaning

For best results, finish with a light polish.

What NOT To Use on Stainless Steel

Some products can permanently damage stainless steel and should always be avoided.

Avoid:

• Steel wool or wire brushes
• Abrasive scouring pads
• Bleach or chlorine-based cleaners
• Ammonia-based products
• Oven cleaners
• Harsh chemical sprays

These can scratch the surface or damage the protective coating, leading to corrosion.

Outdoor Stainless Steel Cleaning

Outdoor stainless steel, such as handrails or BBQs, is exposed to weather and pollutants.

Cleaning tips:

• Rinse regularly with fresh water
• Use mild detergent for grime build-up
• Dry where possible
• Apply a light polish to protect the surface

In coastal areas, salt exposure makes regular cleaning even more important.

How Often Should You Clean Stainless Steel?

Cleaning frequency depends on use and location.

General guidelines:

• High-use kitchen surfaces: weekly
• Appliances: fortnightly or as needed
• Outdoor stainless steel: monthly
• Commercial environments: more frequently

Regular light cleaning is far easier than removing built-up grime.

Common Stainless Steel Cleaning Mistakes

Many issues come from small mistakes, including:

• Cleaning against the grain
• Using too much product
• Letting water air-dry
• Using abrasive tools
• Over-polishing

Avoiding these mistakes helps preserve both appearance and lifespan.

When To Call Professional Cleaners

While most stainless steel cleaning can be handled at home, professionals may be needed for:

• Post-construction cleans
• Heavy grease build-up
• Commercial kitchens
• Large or high-level stainless steel surfaces

Professional cleaners use the correct products and techniques to restore stainless steel without damage.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Stainless Steel Looking Its Best

Stainless steel is durable, stylish, and long-lasting — but only when cleaned correctly. By using gentle methods, cleaning with the grain, and avoiding harsh products, you can keep stainless steel surfaces looking clean and polished for years to come.

A simple routine of regular wiping, proper drying, and occasional polishing is all it takes to maintain that sleek, modern finish.