How to Get Your Stainless Steel Appliances Sparkling Clean
Do you ever look at your stainless steel appliances and wonder, "What was I thinking buying five of these?"
Let’s be real—within a week or two, they’re covered in jammy fingerprints, water streaks from the dispenser, and let’s face it… they’re just not shining.
At Om Sweet Om, we’ve spent a lot of time testing eco-friendly solutions to bring back that showroom sparkle. And guess what? We found the best ones! Here are all my top tips to get your stainless steel gleaming again.
The Secret to Cleaning Stainless Steel
First things first: a soft cloth is your best friend. I swear by microfiber cloths (like the ones in my shop) because they’re gentle, effective, and won’t leave streaks behind.
My Go-To Stainless Steel Cleaning Method
Use a soft cloth – Microfiber works best!
Apply cleaner to the cloth, not the appliance – This prevents streaking and smudging.
Wipe in the direction of the grain – Stainless steel has a grain, just like wood, and wiping against it can trap dirt.
Buff as you go – Have a dry microfiber cloth handy to polish for that extra shine. Work in sections from top to bottom and left to right for the best results.
What’s the Best Cleaner for Stainless Steel?
Not all stainless steel cleaners are created equal, and different appliance brands use different grades of stainless steel—meaning what works for one fridge might not work for your dishwasher. After plenty of trial and error, I’ve narrowed it down to my top four methods:
✔✔ Water + Microfiber cloth – Simple, effective, and streak-free.
✔ Vinegar + Microfiber cloth – Perfect for cutting through grease.
✔ Alcohol + Norwex window cloth – A powerful combo for a streak-free shine.
✔ Essentially Om Multipurpose + Microfiber cloth – My personal favorite for an all-natural clean!
✔ Club soda + Microfiber cloth – Adds an extra sparkle for that showroom finish.
💡 Pro Tip: If you notice streaking, try polishing with a tiny amount of olive oil or orange oil. Just apply it to a dry cloth and buff in the direction of the grain for a flawless finish.
How to Remove Stubborn Stains
Sometimes, you need a little extra power to tackle those tricky spots. Here’s what works:
✨ Heat damage? Mix baking soda and water into a paste and gently scrub.
✨ Water spots? A diluted vinegar solution will do the trick.
✨ Fingerprints? A dry microfiber cloth will buff them away—every single time.
So, there you have it! With the right tools and a little know-how, your stainless steel appliances can stay looking brand new. Try these tips and let me know which method works best for you!
Namaste