Are you tired of seeing smudges and fingerprints on your brushed stainless steel kitchen splashbacks? We've all been there. But fear not, because we're here to save the day with a step-by-step guide on how to clean those pesky stains and restore the shine to your beloved stainless steel surfaces!
Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or simply someone who wants their kitchen always looking pristine, this blog post will be your ultimate go-to resource. So, put on those cleaning gloves and get ready to transform your kitchen into a gleaming haven that's worthy of envy!
Common Issues with Maintaining Stainless Steel Splashbacks
Stainless steel splashbacks are a popular choice for modern kitchens, thanks to their sleek and stylish appearance, durability, and resistance to stains and rust. However, like any other surface in the kitchen, stainless steel splashbacks also require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Despite being relatively low maintenance, there are still some common issues that homeowners may encounter when trying to maintain stainless steel splashbacks.
1. Water Spots: One of the most common issues with maintaining stainless steel splashbacks is water spots. These spots occur when water droplets dry on the surface of the splashback, leaving behind mineral deposits that can be difficult to remove. To prevent water spots from forming, it is important to wipe down your stainless steel splashback after each use with a soft cloth or towel to remove any excess moisture.
If water spots have already formed on your splashback, you can try using a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water or a specialised stainless steel cleaner to gently scrub away the deposits. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth afterwards.
2. Fingerprints: Another common issue with stainless steel splashbacks is fingerprints. Due to its shiny surface, fingerprints can become very visible on stainless steel and make it look unclean and smudged. To avoid this problem, it is recommended to regularly wipe down your splashback using warm soapy water, or a mild detergent solution followed by drying with a microfiber cloth.
In case fingerprints do appear on your splashback despite regular cleaning, you can use rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball or pad to gently rub away the marks before wiping down the area again as directed above.
3. Scratches: Stainless steel may be durable, but it is not completely scratch-proof. Over time, scratches may appear on your kitchen splashback due to various reasons such as using abrasive cleaners or tools, accidentally scraping it with sharp utensils or pots, or even simply due to everyday use. To minimize scratches, avoid using harsh chemicals and always clean your splashback with gentle cleaning agents and soft cloths.
For minor scratches, you can try using a stainless steel cleaner and buffing the area in a circular motion with a soft cloth. For deeper scratches, it may be necessary to consult a professional for repair services.
Products to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel Splashback
When it comes to cleaning stainless steel splashbacks, it is important to be careful with the products that you use. While stainless steel is a durable material, it can still be susceptible to damage if not cleaned properly.
1. Abrasive Cleaners: Products such as scouring powders and cream cleansers contain harsh abrasives that can scratch the surface of your stainless steel splashback. These scratches can not only ruin its appearance but also make it more prone to staining and corrosion over time.
2. Bleach or Ammonia-based Cleaners: While these cleaners are effective in removing tough stains and grime, they are too strong for use on stainless steel surfaces. They can cause discoloration and even corrode the protective layer of your splashback, leaving it dull and vulnerable to damage.
3. Citrus or Vinegar-based Cleaners: Although natural cleaners like lemon juice or vinegar may seem like a great option for cleaning your kitchen, they are not recommended for use on stainless steel surfaces. The acidic properties in these ingredients can strip away the protective layer of your splashback, causing it to lose its shine and making it more prone to rusting.
4. Steel Wool or Scouring Pads: Like abrasive cleaners, using steel wool or scouring pads can cause scratches on your stainless steel splashback. It is best to avoid using any type of scrubbing tool on your splashback and opt for a soft cloth instead.
5. Harsh Detergents: Some detergents may contain chemicals that can tarnish the surface of your stainless steel splashback over time. Avoid using dishwashing liquids or any other harsh detergent when cleaning your kitchen splashback.
Recommended Products for Cleaning and Shining Stainless Steel
Cleaning and shining stainless steel can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to kitchen splashbacks that are constantly exposed to grease, water, and other food residues. However, with the right products and techniques, you can restore the shine and cleanliness of your stainless steel splashbacks in no time.
Here are Some Recommended Products for Cleaning and Shining Stainless Steel:
1. Stainless Steel Cleaner: This specialised cleaner is specifically formulated to remove dirt, stains, and fingerprints from stainless steel surfaces without damaging them. It also leaves a protective layer to prevent future smudges and marks.
2. Microfiber Cloth: A microfiber cloth is an essential tool for cleaning stainless steel as it has fine fibres that effectively trap dust particles without scratching the surface. It also absorbs excess moisture, leaving your splashbacks streak-free.
3. White Vinegar: As a natural alternative to chemical cleaners, white vinegar can be used to clean and shine stainless steel surfaces. Simply mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to wipe down your splashbacks.
4. Baking Soda: Another household item that can be used for cleaning stainless steel is baking soda. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water until it forms a thick consistency. Apply the paste on any stubborn stains or grease marks on your splashbacks and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping off with a damp cloth.
5. Glass Cleaner: Surprisingly enough, glass cleaner can also be effective in removing tough stains on stainless steel surfaces due to its ammonia content. However, make sure to test it out on a small area first before applying it all over your splashback.
6. Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice makes it an excellent natural cleaner for stainless steel surfaces. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and use it as you would any other cleaner.
7. Gentle Dish Soap: If you have mild stains or dirt on your splashbacks, using a gentle dish soap with warm water can do the trick. Make sure to rinse the area thoroughly and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
Step-by-Step Guide on Cleaning Your Stainless Steel Kitchen Splashbacks
The most effective methods for keeping your stainless steel splashbacks looking shiny and spotless:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin cleaning your stainless steel kitchen splashbacks, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. This includes:
- A microfiber cloth or soft sponge
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap or a specialised stainless steel cleaner
- White vinegar (optional)
- Glass cleaner (optional)
- Soft bristle brush (optional)
Step 2: Remove Any Food Residue
The first step in cleaning your stainless steel splashbacks is to remove any food residue or grease that may have accumulated. Use warm water and mild dish soap to create a soapy solution, then use a microfiber cloth or soft sponge to wipe down the surface. Be sure to go over any particularly greasy areas multiple times to ensure they are fully cleaned.
Step 3: Address Stubborn Stains
If there are stubborn stains on your splashbacks that cannot be removed with just soap and water, try using white vinegar as a natural alternative. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, then spray it onto the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
For tougher stains or grime build-up, you may need to use a soft-bristled brush along with the vinegar solution to scrub away at the surface gently.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have addressed all the visible stains on your splashbacks, it's time to rinse them off completely. Use clean warm water and a clean cloth or sponge to remove any remaining soap residue from the surface.
Step 5: Dry and Buff
After rinsing, it's essential to dry your splashbacks thoroughly to prevent water spots from forming. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface, then use another dry cloth or paper towel to buff it until it shines.
Step 6: Optional: Use Glass Cleaner for Extra Shine
If you want your stainless steel splashbacks to have an extra shine, you can use a glass cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel. Simply spray the cleaner onto the surface and wipe it off with a soft cloth.
Cleaning your stainless steel kitchen splashbacks doesn't have to be a complicated process. With these simple steps and the right materials, you can keep your splashbacks looking as good as new for years to come. Remember to regularly clean and maintain them according to this guide for best results.
At the Aluminium Warehouse, we stock a full range of stainless steel splashbacks online for rapid delivery.
You can choose from pre-cut set size stainless steel splashbacks or choose your own dimensions with our cut-to-size stainless steel splashbacks (no charge for cutting).
If you prefer something more fancy, we also stock patterned stainless steel sheet.
