Last Updated on December 8, 2022 by
In most new or remodeled homes nowadays, you’ll find at least one or two stainless steel appliances, if not an entire kitchen full of them. Stainless steel is a trendy, shiny, and modern appliance material du jour. It can be found on nearly every appliance in the house, from the sink and oven to the refrigerator and dishwasher.
Scratches on stainless steel
Stainless steel is not one metal, but an alloy made up of several different metals. As stainless steel is made, scrap steel is melted and mixed with metals like chrome or nickel, heated, pressurized, and finally treated to create its distinguishing features. A wonder material, stainless steel features a variety of unique properties which have manufacturers using it for a wide range of applications from silverware to large industrial projects. Corrosive-resistant (doesn’t rust easily), easy to manufacture, heat-resistant, and recyclable, stainless steel is an excellent material for manufacturing.
Your stainless steel kitchen is beautiful, even with those pesky handprints. Don’t worry; stainless steel can be cleaned often without causing damage. The only thing to watch out for is scratching the metal. Maintaining stainless steel can be quite a challenge in this regard. This guide is all about how to get scratches out of stainless steel?
How to get scratches out of stainless steel?
Its sleek look and durability make stainless steel a popular choice. Many items in the home and workplace are stainless steel, including cookware, kitchen appliances, sinks, fixtures, etc. In the unfortunate event that stainless steel becomes scratched, whether it be a microwave, dishwasher, or refrigerator.
Scuffed-up steel doesn’t have to stay that way forever! To remove scratches or scrapes from stainless-steel appliances, follow these simple steps. Be sure to only apply these techniques to stainless steel that a clear coat or synthetic surface has not protected.
Removing fine scratches on stainless steel
Consider using Bar Keeper’s Friend or Revere Stainless Steel and Copper Cleaner, or non-abrasive compounds. You can even use whitening toothpaste as a last resort. When using powdered stainless steel scratch removers, add a few drops of water at a time until you achieve a paste that resembles toothpaste. If your compound of choice is cream-based, move to the next step.
Use a microfiber cloth to apply a small amount of the scratch remover compound and rub the cloth back and forth, working in the metal’s grain direction. Continue until the scratch disappears. Ensure any residue on the surface is removed by gently wiping it with a fresh, barely damp microfiber cloth. Follow with another fresh microfiber cloth. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to remove scratches entirely from stainless steel surfaces.
Removing deeper scratches on stainless steel
Stainless steel scratch removal kits such as Scratch-B-Gone or Siege Stainless Steel Sink and Cookware Scratch Remover can remove larger imperfections that the compound cannot resolve. Kits for scratch removal generally contain a polishing compound and sets of abrasive pads. From coarsest grit to finest grit, you will work on removing scratches and restoring the stainless steel surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific kit.
You should rub the scratch with the grain of the grit pad recommended for the specific scratch you want to remove in one direction only; going back and forth can leave unattractive circular marks if you go back and forth. Remove the scratch with only as much pressure as is necessary; do not go deeper than you need to.
If the manufacturer recommends, replace the pad with a smoother one and continue buffing with water or any compounds included in the kit. After that, wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth to create a smooth, shiny surface. For regular cleaning and maintenance, avoid using steel wool or abrasive substances. Keep your stainless steel sink looking new by using a rubber dish mat when washing heavy pots or cast iron. Removing it after washing prevents water from remaining trapped underneath, leading to discoloration.
Cleaning and polishing the stainless steel
Your stainless steel appliance can then be cleaned and polished after removing scratches and unwanted marks. Wipe down the newly sanded surface with a clean microfiber cloth. You can do this to remove dust, polishing compound, and water left on the surface. Rub and buff in the direction of the grain when cleaning as well.
The best way to remove all traces of other compounds and cleaners is to spray many vinegar sprays on the metal surface and then wipe it with a clean microfiber cloth. An excellent way to remove the surface will be by spraying several sprays of vinegar, followed by wiping it with a clean microfiber cloth.
You can start polishing stainless steel once it has been cleaned and dry. Use mineral oil, vegetable oil, or olive oil to apply a few drops to a clean microfiber cloth. Rub against the steel in the direction of the grain, adding more oil as needed. Rub until the entire surface is polished.
Make sure the stainless steel is accurate
A common argument is that stainless steel shouldn’t be magnetic. However, only austenitic stainless steel is non-magnetic, meaning if you put a magnet to it, it won’t stick. Stainless steel appliances with a brushed finish are easily fingerprint-prone.
They have a linear grain, which runs continuously in one direction. However, stainless steel appliances have a minor amount of iron-chromium in their composition. In cleaning or removing scratches, you should always wipe or clean in the direction of the grain. Working against the grain can make a scratch worse.
Olive oil, vegetable oil, and mineral oil are all acceptable options. To polish the steel, rub the cloth against it in the direction of the grain. If extra oil is required, add it. Rub the surface repeatedly until it is completely polished.
Does toothpaste take care of stainless steel scratches?
Utilizing the toothbrush and toothpaste, rub the mixture over the scratch going with the direction of the grain. Check if the scrape is gone after removing the toothpaste with a clean, moist towel. Apply a little layer of stainless steel polish or olive oil after finishing the process once you are happy.
