How to Clean Fingerprints from Stainless Steel in Three Steps
Stainless steel looks beautiful in the kitchen, but it has one drawback: every fingerprint remains visible. Every touch leaves greasy smudges on the stainless steel surface. If you don't maintain, wipe, and clean regularly, it becomes very unpleasant to look at.
TL;DR
- Regular cleaning (weekly for daily-use appliances, every few days for handles) prevents buildup.
- Never use harsh cleaners, bleach, ammonia, steel wool, or abrasive sponges on stainless steel.
- Start by wiping with a microfiber cloth dampened with soapy water, following the grain.
- Rinse with a water-dampened cloth.
- For stubborn prints, use a dry cloth or a diluted white vinegar solution (half water, half vinegar), then rinse again.
- Polish with a dry cloth, and optionally, a tiny amount of mineral or olive oil for shine.