How to Clean Stainless Steel

How to Clean Stainless Steel Shelf Brackets

Bright and shiny stainless steel is naturally able to resist corrosion thanks to a passive chromium oxide layer that forms on the surface. Abrasion or excessive heat will destroy this protective layer and expose the metal to corrosion. So how do you clean stainless steel and keep that brilliant sheen while preserving the metals protective layer? One of the best habits to adopt when cleaning stainless steel shelf brackets is to wipe with mild soap and water in the direction of the grain. Stainless steel has a grain like wood. The "grain" in stainless steel is the direction any finish lines may have made. Do not burnish stainless steel with a circular motion. Wiping in the direction of the grain reduces the risk of scratches.

To tackle grease or baked on goods, use a mild detergent and hot water. Be sure to rinse the surface and towel dry to prevent water spots or staining. To remove tough dirt and stains use a paste of baking soda mixed with liquid soap and gently scrub into the grain using a soft toothbrush. If stains remain try undiluted vinegar  or rubbing alcohol and  scrub with the grain using a soft brush to remove all the dirt from the recesses. Rinse and towel dry. You may wish to buff your stainless steel periodically after cleaning with a stainless steel polish to maintain a lustrous finish.  Apply the polish following the direction in the direction of the grain with a lint free cloth, buff and dry with another lint free cloth. Make your stainless steel extra shiny with  a few drops of lemon oil. Do not use abrasive cleaners or sponges as they can permanently scratch the surface Keep in mind  some stainless stainless steel products such as appliances are treated with a clear-coat finish at the factory, and some cleaning products can strip or mar that finish. Be sure to check your owners manual. for cleaning and care instructions.

1 comment

Cleaning brackets and shelf standamrds Mine were in a room that whére people smoked cigarettes for many years and have developed a nicotine film on the surfaces. I brought them with me when I moved and I have tried everything shy of wet sandpaper
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you

Dan Bogart

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