Stainless steel gleams in the light in a unique manner that no other material can duplicate for various surfaces in your home ranging from tapware to sinks, but only when you maintain it in the proper way. You may think that this means a bunch of expensive cleaners or special equipment but the opposite is true. Just follow our tips below to preserve the ideal condition of your stainless surfaces.
In many cases, a mild detergent and warm water are sufficient to clean dirt, debris, fingerprints and other residue off stainless steel. You need to use a soft cloth along with the soap and water. Rinse well with clear warm water and thoroughly dry.
2. Ammonia for Tough Stains
If soap and water is not strong enough to clean your stainless steel surfaces, you can mix up a one-percent ammonia solution. Repeat the rinse and dry action in number one. Never use bleach as it can be difficult to rinse off after the cleaning process.
3. Avoid Scratching Stainless Steel
Scratches in your stainless surfaces will destroy its attractive, shiny appearance. One way to avoid scratches is by using gentle strokes in place of aggressive scrubbing to clean the surface. In addition, never use steel wool or leave tins or carbon steel items on the stainless surfaces. Only use non-abrasive cleaners and pads on your stainless as to prevent further marring it.
4. Rub With the Grain Not Against It
Another useful tip for avoiding scratches is to always rub with the grain not against it. All stainless surfaces have a definite grain that travels horizontally, vertically, or around the surfaces as in handrails or faucets. Rubbing against the grain will dull the shine rather than enhance it in the right manner. Only in cases of stubborn stains or light scratches use a fine cream cleanser rubbing along the grain with a sponge or soft cloth. Rinse off well with warm water and dry buffing with a cloth.
5. Avoid Extended Contact with Acids or Salts
Acids and salts can discolour your stainless so avoid extended contact with these types of ingredients. Wipe up all spills immediately to prevent discolouration.
6. Address Tough Issues With the Correct Actions
Use the correct actions to solve tough issues when soap and water will not remove them in the ideal manner, such as the examples below:
- Rust marks require the application of special stainless steel cleaners with a soft cloth or professional attention depending upon their severity.
- You can use a bit of glass cleaner, acetone, alcohol, mineral turpentine or methylated spirits to remove stubborn grease and oil marks, or fingerprints.
- A solution of baking powder and boiling water will remove coffee and tea stains from stainless surfaces.
For further details on the right way to clean your stainless steel to maintain its shine, consult with Tilo Tapware. We are experts in providing high-quality tapware, sinks and other related products for your home or business.