Cleaning Stainless Steel Splashbacks and Countertops

Stainless steel was invented over a century ago but it’s going strong even today. Most modern kitchens feature at least some stainless steel appliances. Not only do they create that awesome feeling of contemporary design, but they’re also durable and relatively easy to maintain. Many London landlords prefer them for this reason. And homeowners are joining the party. 

Today, we’ll focus on cleaning stainless steel splashbacks and countertops. They used to be staples of professional restaurant kitchens, but they’ve made their way into our homes (if not our hearts). Whether you like them or not is a matter of taste, but you can’t deny how awesome it is to have something so durable in your kitchen. Stainless steel splashbacks and countertops fit this description to a T. And while they’re extremely easy to clean, there are still a few things you need to beware of, which we’ll explore today.

In this article:

• Stainless steel splashbacks and countertops cleaning supplies
• Your step-by-step guide to spotless stainless steel countertops
  • Step 1: The initial wipe-down
  • Step 2: Mix your cleaning solution
  • Step 3: Go with the grain
  • Step 4: Tackle tough stains
  • Step 5: Rinse and shine
  • Step 6: A final buff
  • Step 7: Want even more shine?
• How to clean your stainless steel splashbacks
  • Step 1: Daily cleaning
  • Step 2: Dishwashing soap and warm water
  • Step 3: Baking soda paste for tough stains
  • Step 4: Polishing for that extra sparkle
  • Regular deep cleans are a must
• Common Mistakes in Stainless Steel Cleaning
  • Abrasive materials are out of the question
  • Going against the grain
  • Using harsh chemical
  • Water spots
  • Clean regularly
  • Using cooking oil for polish
  • Stick to the manufacturer's instructions
  • FAQ - answering your stainless steel cleaning questions
• Conclusion

Stainless steel splashbacks and countertops cleaning supplies

Cleaning stainless steel splashbacks and countertops is not as tough as some other chores you need to tackle, but it still requires some preparation:

• Soft cloths or microfiber towels
• Mild detergent or a dedicated stainless steel cleaner (no harsh chemicals, please)
• Warm water
• Baking soda

Your step-by-step guide to spotless stainless steel countertops

Let’s go through the step-by-step process of returning the lustre of your stainless steel countertops.

Step 1: The initial wipe-down

Kick things off with a damp cloth to remove any loose debris or crumbs. Think of it as prepping the field for the next steps.

Step 2: Mix your cleaning solution

Stir up a mild soapy solution or grab your stainless steel cleaner. Remember, gentle is the name of the game here. It’s tough to ruin stainless steel, but not impossible.

Step 3: Go with the grain

I’m usually a “go against the grain” type of guy, but here we’ll make an exception. Dip your cloth in the solution and gently wipe the countertop, paying attention to the metal’s grain. This is crucial – you don’t want to leave any scratches on the surface.

Step 4: Tackle tough stains

For those stubborn stains, baking soda comes to the rescue. Mix it with water, apply the paste, let it sit, then gently scrub – still going with the grain.

Note: Do not use baking soda in its powdery state or you may scratch your countertop. If you’re worried about scratches, it’s best to use a stainless steel cleaner, instead.

Side note: It’s best to test this method on a small, out-of-sight area just to be sure there won’t be any unpleasant surprises.

Step 5: Rinse and shine

Rinse off any residue with clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean towel. This step is a game-changer for avoiding water spots.

Step 6: A final buff

For that extra shine, give it a good buff with a dry microfiber cloth. Circular motions work best here.

Step 7: Want even more shine?

Consider a stainless steel polisher for that extra oomph in shine. Apply a small amount and work it in the direction of the grain.

That’s it. The process is about as straightforward as they come and you can expect excellent results with it.

How to clean your stainless steel splashbacks

The process here is pretty similar to what we already covered above. Here’s how to clean your stainless steel splashbacks:

Step 1: Daily cleaning

A quick wipe with a damp microfiber cloth daily does wonders. It keeps the lustre and says goodbye to light grease and fingerprints. This makes deep cleaning a lot easier.

Step 2: Dishwashing soap and warm water

Mix a mild dishwashing soap with some warm water and use it to clean your stainless steel splashbacks. The dish soap should do a pretty good job of handling the oil splashes that would invariably be there.

Step 3: Baking soda paste for tough stains

As above, we’re using a baking soda paste for tougher stains. Many people recommend using white vinegar to cut through oil and grease, but this is a poor recommendation. You’ll see much better results with baking soda.

Note: Test it on a small, inconspicuous area before going all in. Make sure it doesn’t scratch your stainless steel splashback.

Step 4: Polishing for that extra sparkle

If you’re feeling fancy, polish it up with a stainless steel polish, following the grain for that mirror-like finish.

Note: Stay away from the rough stuff – harsh chemicals and abrasive materials are a big no-no.

Regular deep cleans are a must

Besides your daily routine, give your splashback a deeper clean regularly, depending on how much action your kitchen sees.

Common Mistakes in Stainless Steel Cleaning

Here are some common mistakes you want to avoid. I’ve already mentioned some of them, but they merit a repeat.

Abrasive materials are out of the question

Steel wool or scouring pads? Forget about them. They’re more likely to harm than help.

Going against the grain

Always clean in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches.

Using harsh chemical

Steer clear of chlorine, bleach, or anything too harsh. They can do more harm than good.

Water spots

Dry your surfaces well to avoid water spots – they can be a pain to remove later.

Note: If you’re trying to remove water spots, this is where white vinegar shines.

Clean regularly

Regular cleaning is your friend. It prevents buildup and keeps your surfaces in prime condition.

Using cooking oil for polish

No idea who came up with this, but it’s a bad idea. Using cooking oils for polishing attracts dust and grime, turning your sparkling surface into a magnet for dirt.

Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions

Every stainless steel appliance has its quirks. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance guidelines to keep your warranty intact and your surfaces looking sparkly.

FAQ – answering your stainless steel cleaning questions

Q: Can I use vinegar on stainless steel?

A: You can, but make sure to dilute it and rinse thoroughly to avoid any potential damage from the acidity. Also, don’t use it on oil stains – use it on water stains.

Q: How often should I clean my stainless steel kitchen surfaces?

A: Daily wipes maintain the shine, while deeper cleaning every week or two, especially for high-traffic areas, is ideal.

Q: Are there any cleaning agents to avoid with stainless steel?

A: You bet! Stay away from bleach, chlorine, and abrasive cleaners.

Q: Can I keep fingerprints at bay on stainless steel?

A: While you can’t banish them completely, a daily wipe with a microfiber cloth can significantly reduce their appearance. Some stainless steel cleaners even offer fingerprint-resistant coatings. How consistent this is is anyone’s guess.

Q: Is stainless steel polishing necessary, and how often?

A: It’s not a must, but it adds that extra shine. Polish every few months or as often as you like to keep things gleaming. However, make sure it’s not a harsh chemical. You don’t want harsh chemicals where you cook your food.

Q: How do I clean stainless steel without streaks?

A: To avoid streaks, always go with the grain, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth for drying and buffing, and ensure your cleaning agents are rinsed off thoroughly.

Q: What if my stainless steel gets scratched?

A: Minor scratches can be buffed out with a non-abrasive cleaner and a microfiber cloth. For deeper scratches, consult a professional to avoid making it worse.

Conclusion

Keeping your stainless steel surfaces in tip-top shape is a breeze when you know the ropes. With the right tools and a bit of elbow grease, your kitchen will continue to shine, making every meal prep a delightful experience.

So, roll up your sleeves, follow these tips, and enjoy the gleaming results! And, as always, if you need us, we’re never more than a phone call away.