What Causes Streaks in Stainless Steel Appliances?

Abrasive Cleansers

• Abrasive commercial cleansers often scratch the surface of stainless steel. Small scratches can appear as streaks on the appliance. When you notice the streaks, it may be too late to remove the scratches. Steel wool, abrasive sponges and bristled brushes can also leave behind scratches or streaks. Always clean stainless steel appliances with soft microfiber washcloths and test cleansers on small hidden areas first to ensure that they do not scratch the appliance.

Fingerprints

• Children notoriously leave behind their fingerprints, which form one of the most obvious streaks on stainless steel. When you notice fingerprints left by oil in the skin, clean them with a washcloth dampened in warm soapy water or distilled white vinegar. Rinse with plain water.

Cleanser Residue

• After you clean the surface of stainless steel with your favorite cleanser or soap, the solution should be rinsed off immediately. Soapy residue buildup causes streaks to form and can even damage the finish. Rinse the solution off the surface with a soft washcloth and clean water after you clean the surface to prevent this.

Moisture

• After you clean streaks from your appliance, the moisture remains behind on the surface. Allowing the moisture to air dry causes streaks as the water evaporates. If you have hard water, the streaks may look more obvious due to the minerals. After you clean the surface of the appliance, dry it off with a soft washcloth or towel. Rubbing in a gentle circular motion helps buff the surface to keep it shiny. When you dry the appliance, make sure you remove the moisture from all the cracks and crevices to prevent rust and corrosion from developing.

Bleach

• Any cleanser containing chlorine will leave behind streaks, pitting and stains on stainless steel. The bleach reacts with the stainless steel and causes discoloration. Before you use a commercial cleanser, always read it carefully to ensure that it does not contain chlorine. Even with diluted bleach, the chlorine can ruin the surface of the appliance. Instead of disinfecting it with bleach, use distilled white vinegar to remove germs.