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Removing Hard Water Buildup in Stainless

Stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant, durable metal used to create several products throughout your home, from appliances to cookware and knife blades. Unfortunately, when stainless steel products are cleaned with regular tap water, they can become stained and dulled by the magnesium, lime and calcium found in hard water. Remove the unsightly, dingy stains created by hard water with safe products that won’t damage or scratch the stainless steel.

Things You'll Need

  • 1/2 tbsp. mild dish soap
  • Distilled water
  • Soft cloths
  • Baking soda
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a mixture of 1/2 tablespoon of mild liquid dish soap and 3 cups of distilled water. Stir to mix the mild detergent, which contains no dyes or perfumes, into the water.

    • 2

      Dampen a soft cloth with the mixture, and wipe down the stainless steel, applying pressure if necessary. If the hard water stains persist, continue on to the next step.

    • 3

      Create a paste with 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of white vinegar. Stir the ingredients and add more baking soda, if necessary, to thicken the paste.

    • 4

      Spread a thin layer of the paste directly onto the difficult hard water stains. Allow the paste to remain for five minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.

    • 5

      Dampen a separate soft cloth with distilled water, and wipe away any remaining residue. Dry the stainless steel with a soft cloth to prevent water marks and streaks.