There is literally nothing in kitchens that you cannot find stainless steel on - counters, appliances, furniture, and even industrially - it is the surface of choice where durability and appearance are needed in tandem. Unfortunately, stainless steel surfaces can quickly get coated in fingerprints and water marks or greasy build-up or become scratched.
Polishing the stainless steel surface gives the metal a brilliant reflective shine while offering an added protective layer against further scratching. With the correct polishing techniques you will be surprised at how easily you can return your stainless steel surfaces to their original gleam, following these step by step tips on how to polish your stainless steel properly.
1. Clean the Surface Prior to Polishing
When preparing your stainless steel surfaces to be polished, the first thing that you will need to do is clean the surfaces thoroughly as greasy or dirty surfaces are guaranteed to produce streaky results - do not skip this step. The very first step should always be to wipe down the entire surface of your stainless steel object with a soft, dry microfiber cloth, removing all of the loose debris from off of the surface of the object - avoid abrasive pads or steel wool on stainless steel at all costs, as these will permanently scratch the surface and damage the finish.
Any greasy or oily residue will wash away with warm water mixed with a small amount of liquid dish soap. Simply spray or dab the stainless steel item directly with the solution, or use the solution by dabbing a microfiber cloth in the mixture and wipe in the same direction as the grain of the stainless steel object.
When you take a very close look at a stainless steel object, you can almost see that the stainless steel itself has a very fine grain running horizontally across its surface, and the grain is similar to wood grain in a wood finish - Cleaning in this manner prevents streaks, and helps make removal of your stainless steel polish easier.
For a tricky fingerprint or water spot, use a spray bottle of straight white vinegar and briefly spray the stain then wipe the object immediately with a microfiber cloth, allowing absolutely no water to stand or remain on the surface.
Preparing the stainless steel surface like this allows you to more effectively polish the stainless steel with the correct polish and technique, so that you have a brilliant, streak free shine.
2. Polish the Stainless Steel using appropriate polish and methods
Once your stainless steel surfaces have been cleaned fully and dried completely, it is time to use your chosen polish on the stainless steel objects. Stainless steel polish is available in a range of styles; as sprays, as creams or in its natural state like olive and baby oil.
Most stainless steel objects will benefit most from a commercial staineless steel polish as it generally produces a long-lasting and highly reflective shine as well as perhaps a layer of protection for the metal surface. Use your stainless steel polish on a clean microfibre cloth (not directly onto the surface itself). Use a slight amount of pressure to the cloth and work it into the stainless steel object using a small circular motion. It is not advisable to scrub the stainless steel surface in any motion other than along the grain as this will give it a streaky effect.
Work it into the metal until you see a bright and reflective sheen across the surface. Natural oil polish can also be used, however only a very small amount should be applied or it will collect dust which could affect how it feels. Regardless of which polish you use on your stainless steel objects, it is advisable to take a clean, dry microfibre cloth in the same direction as the grain and polish off any residual polish so you get the maximum effect.
Regular polishing of your stainless steel surfaces will ensure your items do not lose their shine, and polishing regularly will add an additional protective coating to keep greasy stains from settling into the metal. It is, however, vital to use the correct polish for the job.
3. Maintain the shine and protection of your stainless steel
After you have completed the polishing of your stainless steel objects, it is important to look after the surfaces of them and protect the shine you have created. If there is any liquid on the surface (even water) be sure to wipe it off as quickly as possible or if the liquid is acid based, such as lemon juice, lemon juice, vinegar or tomato it will eventually corrode the surface of the stainless steel and can give it a discoloured, patch effect. Always use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning agents and products.
For example, ammonia and chlorine cleaners should never be used on stainless steel as they will strip the surface and give the steel a dulled and worn out finish. Stainless steel polish and naturally oil-based products can be used to clean stainless steel. On water spots it is also advisable to rub them off straight away with some warm water and a sponge or cloth. For stainless steel sinks and appliances always try to wash away any excess standing water before it can dry to stop water spots forming.
Regularly wiping stainless steel items such as refrigerators and handles down will help to prolong their appearance and applying a light amount of polish periodically to these high traffic items will give the impression of a well cared-for object. Large scratches can usually be buffed out using scratch kits designed for the purpose, or can be dealt with through professional finishing.