With the proper care, your stainless steel appliances can sparkle for years to come!
Outfitting your custom home’s kitchen with stainless steel appliances is a great option for homeowners who want a clean, professional look. Stainless steel continues to be the popular choice in today’s kitchens for good reason – it’s neutral and works well with almost any décor. And, with the right care, keeping your stainless steel appliances shiny and bright is easy. Here are a few professional cleaning tips to help keep your stainless steel appliances looking like new, longer.
Wipe Down Handles Thoroughly
Stainless steel appliance handles tend to get the most use, and it will show. Fingerprints, smears, and smudges need to be wiped away at least once per week. For best results, use a damp microfiber cloth to remove these marks. No chemicals are required, and you’ll achieve streak free results!.
Cleaning the Hood
Whether you choose a chimney style hood or a more traditional ventilation hood over your cooktop or range, it will require weekly cleaning. Vent hoods collect grease and dust easily, which bond to the hood’s surface. The best cleaning solution? Spray rubbing alcohol onto a microfiber cloth and wipe thoroughly to remove this build up. Just be sure you don’t use the rubbing alcohol near an open flame!
Remove the Knobs
When cleaning your cooking appliances – cooktop, oven, range – be sure to remove the knobs. To achieve a total clean of your appliances, you’ll want to reach under the knobs and remove the grease, dirt, and grime that can hide in these areas. Left untreated, food spills and grease can build up and harden, making the job much more difficult later on.
Stop Oxidization
Over time, stainless steel oxidizes, diminishing its original beauty. Remove this film every so often by using a mixture of pumice powder (found at your local hardware store) and water. Apply the paste following the grain of the steel and rinse with warm water. This trick will keep your stainless steel appliances looking brand new!
Treat Burn Marks
Occasionally, we all burn something on the stove. If you find a burn mark that won’t come out, despite your best efforts, try this simple recipe:
Mix: 1 cup baking soda, ¼ cup lemon juice, 3 Tbsp Borax (form a paste)
Club soda for rinsing
Apply the paste to the affected area with a soft cloth, scrubbing in the same direction as the grain of the steel, then rinse with the club soda and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
Design and Build Your Dream Home with Columbia Builders!
Columbia Builders is the home builder of choice in Howard County, offering homes in Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, Columbia, Marriottsville, Fulton, Clarksville, Dayton, and Brookeville. No matter what the size and scope of your project, we have the skills, experience, and resources needed to bring your vision to life. We offer a level of customization that is truly unmatched and are committed to using materials and craftsmen of the highest quality, so you can trust that your new home is built to last.
If you’re ready to invest in a home that is built with your needs in mind, trust in us. Give Columbia Builders a call today at 410-730-0215 or use our contact form here. You can also keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Houzz, and Youtube, and don’t forget to check back on our blog for more tips and information!