Caring for your stainless steel benchtops

Published: December 16, 2021

Stainless steel is a popular choice in many modern homes; for the sanitary quality in bathrooms and the pristine effect of stainless steel kitchen benches. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, a stainless steel benchtop is easy to clean and resistant to rust and corrosion. However, dust, grease and fingerprints are the main enemies of keeping spotless stainless steel benchtops. With the correct care, they will last a lifetime and continue to look as impressive as the day they were installed. Fortunately, they respond well to simple, regular cleaning and attention to some basic do’s and don’ts.

The Do’s of caring for stainless steel benchtops

Water and a cloth for everyday

Regular cleaning can be done quickly and easily with warm water and a clean, soft cloth. Drying with a cloth will prevent water spots, which can otherwise leave marks made from the minerals in water. Wiping in the direction of the polish lines in your stainless steel benchtop will give the best results and an unblemished finish. You may wish to go one step further and use a microfibre cloth, they absorb the water even better.

Mild detergent and a cloth for stubborn marks

For cleaning situations that require a bit more power; a mild detergent added to warm water is usually all that’s required. Add a few drops of dish-washing liquid to a sink of warm water, firmly wipe down the dirty area, rinse thoroughly with clean water, then dry with a soft, clean cloth to prevent water stains.

Glass cleaner and a cloth for fingerprints

The biggest criticism of stainless steel kitchen benchtops are fingerprints, however, they can also be easily removed with glass cleaner. The newer types of finishes for stainless steel benchtops are resistant to fingerprints and may be a better option if you’re putting in a new kitchen and have a young family. Spray a small amount of standard glass cleaner onto a microfibre cloth, gently wipe the fingerprints in a circular motion until they disappear. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Stainless steel cleaner for refreshing tired stainless steel benchtops

If you have an older stainless steel benchtop, that has been neglected, stained or scratched, a stainless steel clean will give the best results. Read the instructions on the product before using it and test on a small, inconspicuous section first. Then rinse and dry thoroughly.

The Don't s of using stainless steel benchtops

Don't use abrasive cleansers

Usually, stainless steel will not need to be scrubbed, and abrasive cleansers can cause permanent scratching.

Don't forget to rinse

Dirty water can leave a residue that can stain or pit the surface of stainless steel kitchen benches. Remnants of cleaning products can also cause damage. Always rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water, then dry with a cloth.

Don't use products containing bleach

Some people like to bleach everything, but this is a chemical that should never be applied to stainless steel. Remember, bleach can be found in a number of different products. If some gets on your stainless steel benchtop by accident, rinse immediately.

Don't use steel wool or steel brushes

For obvious reasons, these products should never be used on stainless steel kitchen benchtops. They will scratch.

For more information on including a stainless steel benchtop in your Haddon Kitchens & Cabinets kitchen renovation contact our team today on 3204 0399

Please Note - We do not supply benchtops only for existing kitchens or DIY renovations.