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Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel appliances have become an extremely popular choice in many households. They look stylish, are hygienic, and easy to clean with the proper know how. Read on to find out what you need to know.
Why Choose Stainless Steel Appliances?
Stainless steel appliances used to be only found in commercial kitchens and restaurants but they are now very popular in households. Everything from dishwashers to stoves to refrigerators now come in a stainless steel finish, not to mention smaller appliances like microwaves, toasters, and kettles.
Stainless steel has a long life span and an easy to clean finish. It also does not stain. It is also hygienic as they provide a barrier against rust and other contaminates that can harbour germs and bacteria. Stainless steel appliances originally came into the home as part of a cosmetic design initiative, moving the home into a more contemporary feel rather than the muted tones that used to be so popular.
Stainless steel appliances also maintain a new appearance for longer. A stainless steel appliance can look brand new, even if it is five or ten years old.
Cleaning and Caring for Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel appliances can be cleaned in a number of ways. Wash the surfaces with hot, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge, working both with and against the grain to lift any buildup. Dry the appliance with a towel. Next, apply a layer of stainless steel polish according to the directions, immediately wiping off any excess. Using a clean, dry towel, buff the polish into the surface, going with the grain, until the surface shines and the towel comes away dry.
Another method that you can use is to clean the stainless steel surface with a sponge or damp cloth with dish soap to remove light soil. Dry the surface. Spray a small amount of WD40 onto a paper towel and rub with the grain over the surface of the appliance. Do not spray the WD40 directly onto the appliance. Using a clean terry cloth or micro fibre cloth, polish the appliance by rubbing with the grain until the excess WD40 is removed and the surface shines. It should not be oily to the touch.
Yet another method for cleaning stainless steel is to use ½ cup of baking soda and enough liquid soap or detergent to make a texture like that of icing. Scoop some of the mixture onto a sponge and scrub the stainless steel. Rinse well. After cleaning with the mixture, bring the stainless steel to a high shine by rubbing the surface with straight household vinegar.
Never use abrasive cleaners, Windex or any other cleaners that contain ammonia, chlorine, or acids on stainless steel as they can permanently etch or stain the surface.
If your stainless steel appliance does become scratched, it can be repaired. It is simply a matter of using a very fine grade steel wool or scotchbrite pad and rubbing along the grain of the stainless steel. You will have to do most of the area that’s showing and it’ll leave a brushed steel finish. You’ll have to use lots of elbow grease in order to buff the scratch out.
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