Stainless steel is a shining example of modernity and durability, which is why it’s used for everything in the kitchen, from appliances to sinks.
Even though stainless steel is supposed to resist staining and scratching, it will gradually show wear and tear after years of use.
Fortunately, it’s easy to make stainless steel surfaces look new again with the help of the right products.
If your stainless steel is looking worse for wear, try out these tips to find out how to remove scratches from stainless steel.
Assess the damage and gather the necessary materials.
If your stainless steel is in good condition with light, minor scuffs, you can take a different approach than if it has deeper, visible scratches.
What You Need to Fix Small Scratches
For less visible nicks and dings, you need a non-abrasive stainless-steel scratch remover compound to fill the fine lines and smooth the surface.
There are already many products on the market made for just this purpose.
Several everyday household items can remove scratches, such as non-gel toothpaste and baking soda.
You will also need several microfiber cloths to apply and remove the scratch-removing compound.
Supplies You’ll Need for Deeper Scratches
Before you begin any project, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary supplies on hand.
This will save you time and frustration later on.
Taking a few minutes to gather all of the supplies before you start will help to ensure that your project goes smoothly.
You can rub them out with an abrasive pad for more severe scratches.
You’ll need a scouring pad, scrubbing sponge, and cooking oil (olive oil works well).
There are also kits available for purchase that include everything you need.
Not only will these remove shallow scratches, but they can also help with deeper ones.
Note that this technique is only for uncoated stainless steel; if there is a clear coating or synthetic surface, avoid using this method, as you will end up damaging the metal.
You can check your owner’s manual to see what type of metal you have.
Speed Appliance Repairs is the best company to call when you need home appliance repairs.
They are experts in their field and can help you remove scratches from stainless steel quickly and easily.
Contact them today to see how they can help you!
Determine the Direction of the Grain
Sand the metal in the same direction as the steel grain to erase any scratch, no matter how deep.
On a closer look, you will see brushstrokes going either horizontally or vertically.
While cleaning, follow the lines on the stainless steel surface; never rub in a circular motion or against the grain.
Going against the grain can do more harm than good. It is wise to contact an appliance repair expert,
How to Fix Small Scratches
For minor scratches, use a non-abrasive compound.
You can buy these compounds as powders that need to be mixed with water to form a paste, or they can come in the paste already.
Non-gel toothpaste doesn’t require further mixing – you can use it as is – baking soda combined with water will turn into a pasty consistency when it’s ready.
Scrub the surface until it is free of dirt, dust, or food particles.
Apply a small amount of the compound to a microfiber cloth, then gently and evenly rub it over the scratch in the direction of the grain.
Use a microfiber cloth which is damp, to remove the compound and check your progress.
If needed, add more compound until you’re happy with the results.
Wipe away any leftover mixture with the moistened cloth, then use a new dry one to finish drying the surface.
How to Fix Big Scratches
If the compound fails to work or you realize that the blemishes are too severe, then break out the scouring pad.
After adding a few drops of oil to the pad, use moderate pressure to buff the surface in one direction.
Work in a slightly larger area surrounding the scratch to achieve a more uniform appearance.
If you’re unhappy with the results, examine your efforts and repeat as necessary.
Once satisfied, remove any excess oil by buffing the same area with a clean microfiber cloth.
You may need to sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper before polishing it for deeper scratches.
First, clean the area with soap and water to remove dirt or debris.
Then, using sandpaper with a grit of 400 or higher, gently sand along the scratch in a back-and-forth motion until it becomes less visible.
Once you’ve buffed the area, polish it with a soft cloth and non-abrasive cleaner or polishing compound until the scratch disappears.
Final Words
You don’t have to put up with those unsightly scratches on your stainless steel appliances.
With some elbow grease and some materials around your home, you can make them look as good as new in no time.
If you find the problem more severe than just a few scratches, or you don’t have the time to take care of it yourself, contact an appliance technician at Speed Appliance Repairs.
We would be happy to help how to remove scratches from stainless steel.
