How to keep stainless steel surfaces shiny

Nothing beats the sleek and sophisticated look of brand-new stainless steel appliances. Stainless steel is often chosen for professional kitchens due to its clean look and resistance to bacteria; however, it can be prone to streaks, fingerprints, and water marks, which eventually make it lose its shine.

The good news is that there are plenty of easy ways to keep stainless steel looking as clean and shiny as it was when it was brand-new.

We caught up with Paul Neiss from the leading British cookware and kitchenware brand, ProCook, to find out his top tips on how to keep your kitchen appliances looking their best. Here's everything he had to say...

How to clean stainless steel

Use silicone scrubbers

Some stainless-steel appliances are coated with a layer of protective film. If this is scratched, the steel underneath becomes susceptible to damage, so it’s important to avoid using any abrasive scourers or harsh chemical cleaners.

Silicone scrubbers are an excellent alternative here, as they’re hygienic, durable and gentle on delicate materials. They are also great for the environment as they last much longer than traditional sponges.

Work with the grain

Much like wood, stainless steel has a ‘grain’, so wiping or polishing with the grain will give your appliances extra shine. Working against the grain or in a circular motion can result in streaks.

Use water and a microfibre cloth

Good old-fashioned water and a microfibre cloth will remove most everyday smudges, but for more stubborn marks, choose a specialist cleaner designed for stainless steel. This will remove grease and grime while leaving a streak-free finish.

If you prefer to use eco-friendly cleaning products, a paste made from baking soda and a little water can also work well. Just go gently, and wipe off any residue thoroughly.

Clean acidic foods promptly

If you have a stainless-steel sink, try to make sure that no acidic foods or liquids are left in it for any length of time, as they can stain the finish. Remove any marks with water, and wash acidic products down the drain as soon as possible.

Polish with oil

Once your appliance is free of dirt and marks, polishing it with a few drops of olive oil or baby oil will help to bring back its original lustre.

Looking for more kitchen ideas? Don't forget to check out our guide on how to choose the right sinks and taps.