How to Remove Stains from Stainless Steel

Co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH

Last Updated: April 21, 2024 References

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Despite its name, even stainless steel can get stains. Fortunately, there are a number of quick and easy ways to clean your stainless steel appliances. A paste of liquid soap and baking soda is probably your best bet. For stronger stains, a simple wipe with vinegar should do the trick. Your stainless steel will be stain-free in no time!

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Tackling Stains

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Dab a bit of the paste onto a nylon scrubbie or an old toothbrush. Gently scrub the stain along the grain of the stainless steel.^{[1]
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Use vinegar for stronger stains. If the baking soda paste doesn’t work, dab a soft brush in undiluted vinegar. Scrub gently with the grain of the stainless steel. Wipe the vinegar away with a dry cloth.^{[2]
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- Alternately, fill a spray bottle with some vinegar and spray it on the stain, then use your brush or a paper towel to wipe the stain away.^{[3]
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Use a flour sack and powdered cleaner to get rid of sink stains. Dampen a corner of an empty flour sack. Sprinkle a powdered cleaner (like Comet or Bon Ami) over it. Rub it onto the stain in a circular motion. Wet another corner of the sack, then wipe the stain in the opposite direction.^{[4]
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- Finally, wipe the entire area you cleaned with wax paper.
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Buff your stainless steel sink or appliances after cleaning. Use a stainless steel polish, lemon oil, or a silicone-based spray to maintain the finish. While the specific directions will vary depending on the product you use, you can generally apply a bit of the buffing agent to a clean cloth, then wipe back and forth along the direction of the stainless steel grain.^{[5]
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- Instead of a store-bought product, you could also use a mineral oil such as olive oil. Just dab a cloth or paper towel in a bit of the oil and wipe along the direction of the grain.^{[6]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Removing Rust

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1
Make a paste of baking soda and water. If your stainless steel has rust spots, don’t fret! They’re easy to remove. Mix 1 tablespoon (14.4 g) of baking soda into 2 cups (470 mL) of water.^{[7]
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Scrub the rust away with a toothbrush dipped in the paste. Pick a clean toothbrush with soft bristles. You won’t be able to use it on your teeth again, so choose an old one. Dip the bristles in the baking soda paste, then use the brush to scrub the rust spots.^{[8]
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Rinse the paste away. Rinse away the baking soda with warm water. Then, wipe the stainless steel with a paper towel. The rust should be gone!^{[9]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Adhering to General Rules

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Your owner’s manual might have specific tips or advice about how to best remove stains from stainless steel. With these directions in hand, you’ll be able to remove stains in the best possible way.^{[10]
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To identify the direction of the grain in your stainless steel object or appliance, look closely at it. You’ll notice the metal is actually organized into thin strips that all point in one direction. Unless otherwise noted, clean along the grain of the stainless steel.^{[11]
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Use a damp, soapy washcloth to wipe the surface along the grain. Rinse the washcloth with clean water, then wipe the stainless steel appliance again. Wipe it with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.^{[12]
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Cleaners containing chlorides (including iodine, bromine, chlorine, and fluorine) can cause pitting and damage your stainless steel. Alcohol, ammonia, or mineral spirits can also hurt the protective layer over the steel surface. Finally, abrasive steel wool or steel brushes can scratch the stainless steel surface and encourage rust.^{[13]
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Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Cleaning Your Stainless Steel

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Clean as much of the surface as possible using a sponge dipped in hot, soapy water. When the stainless steel is dry, sprinkle flour over it. Use a cloth or paper towel to buff the flour into the metal. This is great for removing bits of residual grime and dirt.^{[14]
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Use glass cleaner to remove fingerprints. Spray the glass cleaner liberally over the surface of the stainless steel, then use a clean cloth to wipe it down. This technique works best for wiping away fingerprints.^{[15]
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- You can also make your own glass cleaner. Get a ½ gallon (1.9 L) container and add 1 cup (240 mL) of high-proof alcohol and ¹⁄₄ cup (59 mL) of white vinegar. Fill the rest of the container with water, then transfer the mixture to a spray bottle.
Furniture polish can be used as an alternative to glass cleaner. Just spray a bit of the furniture polish on a clean cloth and wipe the surface of the stainless steel with it.^{[16]
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Use club soda on appliances. If you’re cleaning an appliance, fill a spray bottle with club soda and spray the stainless steel surface. Wipe along the grain of the stainless steel until it shines.^{[17]
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- If you’re cleaning a stainless steel sink, place the stopper in the bottom and fill it with club soda until the bottom is covered. Use a clean cloth to scrub the sides and bottom of the sink with circular motions, dipping your cloth in the club soda “puddle” as needed.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How do I remove an acid stain from stainless steel?

Michelle Driscoll, MPH
Founder, Mulberry Maids
Michelle Driscoll is the Owner of Mulberry Maids, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With five years of experience, her business specializes in cleaning homes and small offices. She holds a Masters in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Michelle Driscoll, MPH

Founder, Mulberry Maids

Expert Answer

A fresh acid stain should be removed using water as quickly as possible to avoid damage of the stainless steel. For stains that have been on the steel for more time, an easy and mild method for stain removal to start with is to mix equal parts baking soda and liquid dish soap in a bowl to create a paste. Use a clean towel or rag, and apply the paste to your stain and scrub untill the stain has been removed.

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Tips

Test your chosen product on a small area to be sure it doesn’t damage the surface of the stainless steel.

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Be as gentle as possible to avoid scratching the stainless steel. Avoid using abrasive powders, steel wool, or scouring pads.

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