Plates, silverware, and cookware that are left to sit in a stainless steel sink can leave behind streaks and scratches. Create New Account. Cleaning against the grain can scratch the surface of stainless steel. It also helps to clean out the grooves where dirt and grime get trapped. Rub on some BKF with a wet sponge to form a paste. It’s true that stainless steel is sturdy and, overall, easy to maintain – but what about cleaning stainless steel? It also removed scratches on my ceramic cereal bowls, and it fixed scratches on my car. For all these tips and more, check out the video above. See more of Bar Keepers Friend PH on Facebook. DON’T wipe against the grain. 2. If you’re like me, you’ve noticed all your pots and pans have baked-on stains, your appliances are coated in gunk, and your silverware is rusting. Knives & Flatware. Not Now. DON’T leave things sitting in a stainless steel sink. Exposing a hot pan to cold water can warp or crack it. ), 12 Surprisingly Practical Things You Can Do With Cardboard Tubes, 11 Of The Most Helpful Household Uses For Washing Soda. Since we all need a little levity today: A neutron walks into a bar and orders a beer. The calcium build-up from hard water stains not only looks bad, but it hinders cooking and can hide bacteria. DO wait until the water boils before salting. From cleaning up crayon to scrubbing away bugs, dryer sheets are way more useful than you think! There are approximately 150 grades of stainless steel, each of which is made of a different mixture of elements. These chemicals and other abrasive cleaners will cause surface pitting. That little bit of extra time can save your stainless steel cookware. See more of Bar Keepers Friend PH on Facebook. Wipe up spills as they happen and you won’t have to worry about scratches and stains. These variances make it extra important to follow manufacturers’ care instructions and to test cleansers on a small spot first. Stainless steel appliances, in particular, will benefit from our Stainless Steel Cleanser & Polish. Stainless steel is comprised of a variety of different elements including carbon, chromium, nickel, manganese, silicone, phosphorous, sulfur, and nitrogen. Many manufacturers also have their manuals and care instructions online, which is perfect for a quick double-check before you do something you might later regret. First wet your surface—be it an oven door, a sink, or the face of an appliance. DON’T saltwater in a pan before boiling. The calcium build-up from hard water stains not only looks bad, but it hinders cooking and can hide bacteria. Log In. Many different cleaners contain chlorides or chlorine. This method ensures that you won’t dull or scratch your product. Pitting is irreversible and can lead to spots of rust later. Stainless steel appliances, in particular, will benefit from our. Putting salt in a stainless steel pot containing water before heating it can cause pitting of the metal. DON’T use chlorine bleach, chloride, oven cleaner, or other abrasive cleaners. This powder is known for cleaning stainless steel (which it does incredibly well), but it has uses all over (and even outside) the house. Make sure to read labels and know what they contain before using any cleaning products. A Cleaner Outdoors: What is Safe to Clean? Plates, silverware, and cookware that are left to sit in a stainless steel sink can leave behind streaks and scratches. Make sure to rinse off cleanser thoroughly with water and wipe product dry to prevent streaking. That unsightly film is hard water deposits and they can harm your stainless steel. Log In. ☝️ Please login or create a free account to comment, 14 Things You Can Clean With Bar Keepers Friend That Will Amaze You, How To Make Scratched Dishes Look Like New Again, 10 Surprising Ways To Use Ordinary Toothpicks, This Is The Ultimate Oil For Your Skin And Hair (And More! DO practice patience. While you want to remove hard water deposits, do not use abrasive cleaners or cleaning products. or. Many manufacturers, including GE Appliances, recommend Bar Keepers Friend for cleaning their products. DO clean up messes quickly. These variances make it extra important to follow manufacturers’ care instructions and to test cleansers on a small spot first. Each of these products is non-abrasive and won’t harm the chrome oxide barrier when used properly. Putting salt in a stainless steel pot containing water before heating it can cause pitting of the metal. Cleaning against the grain can scratch the surface of stainless steel. DO remove hard water stains as soon as you see them. This barrier is what makes stainless steel so durable. This build-up can also occur when water sits on the surface of cookware because it is not towel dried after washing. This website uses cookies to ensure you have the best experience. Wait just a few minutes for the water to boil before adding salt. Trial #3 – Bar Keepers Friend. In addition, many appliances have special coatings or finishes. If you accidentally get chlorine on stainless steel, be sure to wash it off quickly and thoroughly. DO remember that not all stainless steel is created equal. Many manufacturers also have their manuals and care instructions online, which is perfect for a quick double-check before you do something you might later regret. Make sure to always dry your stainless steel with a soft cloth or towel in order to keep moisture from sitting on the surface. Steel wool and scrub brushes can also leave behind tiny particles that may later rust. Before cleaning anything with BKF, check the package to make sure that it is a recommended use. While doing dishes may not be the way that you want to spend your time after dinner, it could save your sink. Pitting is irreversible and can lead to spots of rust later. Better still, it is non-abrasive, so it safe for stainless steel. All rights reserved. They can also strip the protective chrome oxide barrier from stainless steel. There are just so many things to take …, Spring is right around the corner, which means many folks will be spending a lot more time outdoors in the …, BKF Institutional MORE Spray + Foam Cleanser, are perfect for regularly cleaning stainless steel sinks and cookware. That little bit of extra time can save your stainless steel cookware. Stainless steel is comprised of a variety of different elements including carbon, chromium, nickel, manganese, silicone, phosphorous, sulfur, and nitrogen. This method ensures that you won’t dull or scratch your product. DO clean with grain when cleaning stainless steel. Are you noticing a chalky, white build up on your stainless sink or cookware? One of our favorite cleansers here at Lifehacker is Bar Keepers Friend.