Proper upkeep of your stainless steel appliances, fixtures, and kitchenware is key to keeping them looking brand-new for as long as possible. With the right routine and cleaners, your stainless steel will stay resistant to stains, water spots, and scratches. Keeping a few cleaning hacks and tricks up your sleeve can help you clean your stainless steel easily, and with less damage than you might think.

One of the best ways to clean stainless steel is to simply wipe it regularly. Using a microfiber cloth with warm water and possibly a little dish soap will keep your surfaces clean and shiny, and prevent buildup of grease and grime. Leaving a damp, soapy cloth on your appliance for extended periods of time can scratch it, so make sure to rinse and dry the surface every time.

Stainless steel is naturally rust-resistant, but it’s important to keep up with regular cleanings in order to maintain this property. The chromium in stainless steel acts with oxygen to create an invisible protective layer that prevents rust from forming on the surface. However, if the protective layer is scratched or damaged, the metal can become susceptible to rusting.

If your stainless steel is already starting to develop rust, it’s best to clean the area right away to avoid further damage. To remove rust stains from stainless steel, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area. Allow the paste to sit for 20 minutes, then rinse with a wet cloth and towel dry. If the rust stain is particularly stubborn, scrub it with a toothbrush and rinse with a wet cloth again.

When you’re looking to keep your stainless steel extra shiny, try using a little lemon oil or other cooking oil on a soft cloth and rub it into the surface. This will give it a nice, subtle shine without any of the chemicals or scratches you might get with other cleaners. Just don’t use this trick on any appliances that conduct heat, or you might risk damaging them.

A few of the biggest DO NOTs for caring for your stainless steel include Magic Erasers, which can leave fine grit particles behind that will scratch and dull surfaces. Also, never let soap cleansers, sponges, or rags dry on your sink’s surface, as they can harbor bacteria and stains. Finally, steel wool pads and any other abrasive pad should be avoided as they can scratch your sink’s surface.

When it comes to the quickest and easiest way to clean your stainless steel, white vinegar is a tried-and-true solution. Simply spray a little on a microfiber cloth and rub it in the direction of the grain for a quick and easy clean. Just be sure to rinse your cloth regularly so you don’t leave any soapy residue on the stainless steel, and toss it in the wash with other lint-free fabrics so it stays soft and reusable. If you’d rather skip the DIY method, a store-bought stainless steel cleanser and polish like Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish might be easier for you to handle. It gets an impressive 90% 4-5 star rating from over 15k reviews and has a natural plant-based and coconut oil base!