Stainless steel is one of the most popular finishes for kitchen appliances right now—and with good reason, it’s versatile, durable, and it looks great with almost any style of décor. Because stainless steel is neutral both in terms of color and style, you can design just about any kitchen around it, from ultra-modern to country-style. The popularity of stainless steel accents and appliances also owes something to the advent of professional cooking shows. Stainless steel appliances are often what the pros use in commercial kitchens, and as more people see them on their favorite cooking shows, it has driven an increased demand for them in home kitchen designs.
Balancing your stainless steel appliances and other accents can be achieved in a lot of different ways, from granite countertops for a classic look, to warm woods that counterbalance the coolness of the steel. Kitchen tiles and backsplashes can be used to complement stainless steel elements, or echo them with metallic tiles. When it comes to decorating, stainless steel is one of the most versatile elements in your kitchen arsenal.
But like all good things, stainless steel requires special care to keep looking and performing its best. Here are a couple of quick tips to keep in mind when cleaning your stainless steel appliances:
- Nothing abrasive. No steel wool or other metal scouring pads, as they can cut grooves into the finish of your stainless steel. Use a soft cloth or sponge when cleaning.
- Always wipe and buff your stainless steel appliances when you’re finished cleaning. Wiping it off can avoid spots, and prevent any buildup of cleaning residue that can lead to fingerprints.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s directions. Many stainless steel appliances come with cleaning guidelines in their owner’s manuals that will give you advice on cleaning—what, where, and how often.
- Some household cleaners can damage stainless steel, including scouring cleaners and acid-type cleaners. Your best bet is to use a specially-formulated stainless steel cleaner.
Stainless steel appliances and accents are an investment that can look and perform great for years, as long as they’re taken care of. You don’t want to risk cleaning such an integral part of your kitchen with potentially-damaging household cleaners. That’s why Rock Doctor formulated our special Stainless Steel Cleaner and Protectant. Made from a proprietary blend of natural oils and solvents, without any damaging acids, scouring agents, or harsh chemicals, our Stainless Steel Cleaner and Protectant not only leaves your stainless steel appliances spotless, but it also protects them against future buildup of fingerprints, smudges, grease, and other kitchen hazards. Most stainless steel has a finish that helps protect it from damage and keeps it looking its best, but many cleaners can strip or damage that finish. The Rock Doctor stainless steel cleaner and protectant actually helps protect the finish of your stainless steel, to keep it looking better, longer.
This article was brought to you by Rock Doctor, which offers a line of specially-formulated stone cleaner, stone polish, and stone sealer products. Rock Doctor stone care products can be purchased through a number of fine retail stores, including Wal-Mart, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ace Hardware, Do it Best Hardware, Hy-Vee, and Wegmans.
