How to Clean Stainless Steel Items in the Kitchen
Many travelers choose to stay in a vacation rental because they have access to a kitchen. The kitchen is a high-touch, high-traffic area in any home or rental property, so it’s no wonder it can get pretty messy pretty quickly.
Short-term rental cleaners cite stainless steel as a one of the most difficult materials to clean since it is prone to unsightly smudges. It’s a tough and durable material, but it still requires some care and maintenance to keep it looking its best.
With enough elbow grease and the right cleaning supplies, you can make stainless steel appliances and fixtures sparkle — delighting your vacation rental host customers.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Surfaces
Believe it or not, there are a few different ways to clean stainless steel, and the best method will depend on the type and severity of the stain. For example, if you have a small smudge or fingerprint, you can simply wipe it away with a soft cloth dampened with water. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use a mild soap or detergent.
To keep hosts’ stainless steel looking its best, follow these simple tips:
- First, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe away any dirt or debris.
- Then, dampen the cloth with warm water and mild dish soap, and gently scrub the surface in a circular motion. Rinse the area with clean water, and dry it with a soft towel.
- For tough stains, you can also use a paste made from baking soda and water. Rub the paste onto the stain using a soft cloth, then rinse and dry the area.
In general, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the finish of your clients’ stainless steel appliances. If you need to use a stronger cleaner, be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth afterward.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Pots and Pans
Stainless steel cookware is a kitchen staple. Other than being durable and easy to care for, it also has a sleek, modern look that can complement any décor. But with constant use, anything is bound to accumulate grime and scratches.
You may not need to clean dishes at the Airbnb you’re cleaning, but if you do, here are our top tips for keeping stainless steel cookware looking new:
- To remove fingerprints and smudges, use a mild soap and water solution or white vinegar. For stubborn marks, you can try using a damp cloth dipped in baking soda.
- If the cookware has started to develop a patina, you can restore its shine with a liberal application of WD-40. Simply spray the WD-40 on the affected areas and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
- To remove burned-on food, fill the pot or pan with water and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Bring the water to a boil and let it cool before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
- For really tough stains, you can try using white vinegar or ammonia. Like in the previous step, use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth for scrubbing the pans. Make sure to rinse thoroughly afterward, so a guest’s food doesn’t end up tasting like vinegar.
You can also use these tips for cleaning stainless steel utensils. Remember to be gentle when scrubbing because you don’t want to scratch the items or remove their coating.
Steel Yourself for Some Easy, Deep Cleaning
Stainless steel appliances and fixtures are popular because they are tough, durable, and look great in any kitchen. However, they can be a magnet for fingerprints, and keeping them clean can be a challenge, especially with a high volume of vacation rental guests checking in and out.
Thankfully, when short-term rental house cleaners keep stainless steel appliances, cookware, and surfaces in top condition, they’ll be good to use for many years to come.
This article was written by Maid2Match, Australia’s most reliable house cleaning service. The Schulz brothers started the business in Brisbane in 2014 and have since expanded to cover over 30 locations across the country. They strive to provide a 5-star experience every time through cleaning and full-time customer support.
